As reported elsewhere, the coroner’s jury at the inquest into the death Sheilah Sweatman delivered nine recommendations intended to prevent similar tragedies from recurring in the future.  Evidence at the inquest revealed that 20 other SAR volunteers and three RCMP members were present when she drowned, unable to rescue her after she became entangled in a tow truck cable.  It was apparent that the recovery endeavour was poorly planned and executed, with a series of errors leading to the tragic result.  Sheilah’s family attended all six days of the hearing, and will hopefully draw some strength and solace from findings and recommendations.

Sheilah Sweatman's family