Inmate killed B.C. serial killer Robert Pickton with broken broom handle, investigation finds
An investigation report has been released detailing the tragic prison assault that resulted in the death of notorious B.C. serial killer Robert Pickton. The report reveals that Pickton was viciously attacked by another inmate at Quebec’s Port-Cartier Institution on May 19, 2024. During the assault, the aggressor broke a broom handle and thrust it into Pickton’s face while medication was being distributed in the unit.
Prison guards swiftly intervened to stop the beating, but the attacker managed to grab a broomstick, break the handle, and inflict further harm on Pickton. As a result of the assault, Pickton was rushed to a hospital in an ambulance and later airlifted to a facility in Quebec City, where he was admitted to intensive care due to his critical condition. Tragically, Pickton passed away on May 31, 2024, as a result of the injuries sustained during the assault.
The report indicates that inmates had unrestricted access to cleaning tools, including mops and brooms that were not securely stored in locked cabinets. Pickton, who was 74 years old at the time of his death, had been serving a life sentence since 2007 for six counts of second-degree murder. Despite facing an additional 20 counts of first-degree murder, legal proceedings were halted in 2010.
Furthermore, the report highlights a distressing oversight in which the wrong family member was initially contacted about Pickton’s death. Investigators were unable to ascertain whether Pickton was aware that his designated next of kin had changed their contact information.
In response to the incident, the report includes three recommendations aimed at enhancing security measures within the prison facility. One such recommendation involves securing the doors of cleaners’ storerooms to prevent unauthorized access to potentially dangerous items.
While no criminal charges have been filed in connection with the assault, an independent observer appointed to oversee the investigation commended the board for conducting a thorough and impartial inquiry into the matter. The observer praised the board for their professionalism and dedication in completing the challenging task within the specified timeframe.
The tragic death of Robert Pickton serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can exist within correctional facilities, highlighting the need for stringent security protocols to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff. As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Pickton’s assault and subsequent passing, efforts are being made to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
