PRINCE ALBERT — A public inquest into the November 2022 death of a federal inmate at Saskatchewan Penitentiary is scheduled for next month.
Brandon Lupkoski, 28, was found unresponsive in his cell on Nov. 28, 2022. Correctional staff initiated life-saving efforts before Emergency Medical Services arrived. Despite resuscitation attempts, Lupkoski was pronounced dead.
Lupkoski was serving a three-year, eight-month and 19-day sentence beginning Feb. 25, 2022, for break and enter with intent to commit an indictable act, discharging a firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and possession of a weapon contrary to a prohibition order.
According to Lupkoski’s obituary, he was born in Saskatoon and graduated from Mount Royal Collegiate in 2012. After graduation, he obtained a heavy equipment operator certificate and worked for several construction companies.
“Brandon was very active and greatly enjoyed many sports growing up,” reads his obituary. "His favourite sports were soccer and basketball. He had many hobbies and pastimes outside of his studies, including dirt biking, snowboarding, skateboarding, and enjoying time with friends and family on various trips and gatherings."
Brandon had a love for animals that was only matched by his zest for life and adventure, obituary continues. His cat Rarri and his dog Sosa were a source of continual joy and happiness in his life. He loved taking Sosa for walks by the river and taking his pets with him when he travelled.
“Brandon’s smile, his laugh, sense of humour and outgoing personality were contagious," said his obituary.
The proceedings are scheduled for four days, from Feb. 10 to 13, in Prince Albert. Coroner Timothy Hawryluk, K.C., will preside at the inquest.
The inquest is required under the Coroners Act in any death of an inmate, unless the coroner is satisfied that the person’s death was due entirely to natural causes or wasn’t preventable.
ljoy@sasktoday.ca
