B.C. Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe will personally preside over an inquest into the 2012 deaths of two employees and the injury of 20 more in an explosion at a sawmill in Burns Lake.
Lapointe said Monday a coroner's inquest is the best way to examine evidence that wasn't considered because prosecutors decided not to lay charges. That evidence can be considered at an inquest because its role is to make recommendations, not to assess blame.
"In particular, the inquest will review policies, practices and responsibilities related to the mill operation and worker safety, and will allow an opportunity for full and frank review of the mill's operation and all of the events leading to the tragedy," Lapointe said.
The inquest is expected to take place this fall in Burns Lake.
