Family of engineer who died at Nova Scotia Power reservoir ‘will never be the same,’ court hears
The tragic death of engineer Andrew Gnazdowsky in a Nova Scotia Power reservoir more than four years ago continues to haunt his family, who are struggling to move forward after the devastating loss. Fifteen victim impact statements were presented during a hearing in Halifax provincial court regarding the circumstances surrounding Andrew’s death on October 16, 2020, at the Marshall Falls reservoir in Sheet Harbour, N.S.
Richelle Gnazdowsky, Andrew’s mother, expressed her profound grief by stating, “I don’t recognize my life anymore.” Similarly, Glen Gnazdowsky, Andrew’s father, shared how the aftermath of their son’s passing has torn their family apart, leaving them forever changed.
The victim impact statements were a crucial part of a two-day sentencing hearing for three companies found guilty in relation to Andrew Gnazdowsky’s death. Nova Scotia Power, Brunswick Engineering and Consulting Inc., and Gemtec Consulting Engineering and Scientists Ltd. were convicted for failing to have a rescue boat on site when Andrew entered the water to retrieve malfunctioning survey equipment.
During the sentencing hearing, the court heard statements from the family members of the victim, as well as arguments from the Crown attorney and defense lawyers regarding the appropriate penalties for the companies involved. However, the proceedings were momentarily halted when concerns were raised about the content of a statement prepared by Nicole Gnazdowsky, Andrew’s sister.
The defense lawyers requested that Judge Elizabeth Buckle review Nicole’s statement, citing inadmissible information that needed to be addressed. After careful consideration, Judge Buckle decided to redact significant portions of the statement due to unproven facts. Nicole shared how her mental and physical health had deteriorated since her brother’s death, relying on the love and support of family and friends to cope with the loss.
The defense lawyers argued for penalties that reflected the offenses the companies were convicted of, while the Crown attorney pushed for more substantial fines as a deterrent. Brian Casey, representing Brunswick Engineering, contended that the absence of a rescue boat did not directly cause Andrew’s death and suggested a $45,000 fine for the company. The defense proposed fines ranging from $30,000 to $50,000 for the companies involved, while the Crown advocated for a maximum fine of $500,000 for Nova Scotia Power.
Judge Buckle is set to deliver her sentencing decision on July 3, weighing the arguments presented in court to determine the appropriate penalties for the companies involved in this tragic incident. The Gnazdowsky family continues to grapple with the profound impact of Andrew’s death, seeking closure and justice as they navigate their grief and loss.
