Final summations in Mesic inquest

(Update)

An inquest into the Hamilton police shooting death of Steve Mesic has ended with the jury unable to determine whether his death was a murder or suicide.

The five members of the coroner’s jury did release 10 recommendations in its verdict Monday night. Among the recommendations — better training for police officers and officers in training — when it comes to dealing with emotionally disturbed people. Also — for Hamilton police to look at the results of a lapel camera pilot project underway with Toronto police. Another recommendation is for St. Joseph’s Healthcare to review its client observation process — as well as enhancing identification measures. Mesic died on June seventh of last year — after being spotted running into traffic on the Lincoln Alexander Parkway in Hamilton. Officers shot him nine times just outside his home — when he was approaching them with a shovel over his shoulder. There didn’t seem to be a lot of surprise at the verdict outside the Sopinka Courthouse tonight.

Carr Hatch is Sharon Dorr’s lawyer: “The evidence has been in dispute since day one. There are two different versions of what happened. One version was told to SIU. Another version was told here at the inquest. We thought that might side track the jury a little bit. No one really knows what happened.

Dr. David Higgins is President of St. Joseph’s Healthcare: “I think this jury did a wonderful job I think they tabled very sound recommendation which we can bring back to our organization. And I think some of the recommendations were that we supported and endorsed. They did an excellent job of bringing their perspective to the table.”

Dr. Peter Cook is also with St. Joe’s: “Some things I can say, we’re actually already started. And I think the other recommendations we’ll take very seriously.”

Hamilton’s police chief also released a statement tonight saying in part — the recommendations will be reviewed — and that the review will be delivered in a report to the police services board