Date set for inquest looking into death of Sarnia man shot by London police

Justin Paul Bourassa (Source: McKenzie Blundy Funeral Home)

A coroner’s inquest looking into the shooting death of Justin Bourassa is now scheduled for next month.

The 29-year-old Sarnia tennis pro died on October 28, 2021, after an interaction with London police along Richmond Row in the downtown area.

Shortly before 4 a.m. officers were responding to a reported break-and-enter in the area and wrongfully suspected Bourassa. It was later learned Bourassa had nothing to do with the incident.

According to the province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Bourassa ran from police when told he was being detained as part of the investigation. Bourassa was then apprehended by two officers when Bourassa put one of the officers in a chokehold lasting for between 45 to 60 seconds.

The SIU says shots were then fired, and Bourassa let go of the officer after being shot in the neck.

An ambulance was called and officers performed first aid, but Bourassa died at 4: 24 a.m.

Brief legal motions were held Monday afternoon ahead of the inquest date which has been set for May 4.

It is hoped that recommendations from the inquest will prevent any future similar incidents.

The SIU has since cleared the two officers involved of any wrongdoing.

With files from CTV News London’s Daryl Newcombe