WARNING: This story contains a reference to suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available through Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline (call or text 988), Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868; text 686868; kidshelpphone.ca), and the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (suicideprevention.ca/resources).
THUNDER BAY — The family of Jenna Ostberg say they were “deeply disappointed” on Thursday with the findings of a Special Investigations Unit (SIU) investigation, which concluded that the Thunder Bay police were not at fault for Ostberg’s death on Dec. 30, 2023.
The SIU released its director’s report in respect to Ostberg’s death on Tuesday, more than 18 months after the 21-year-old woman from Bearskin Lake First Nation was found dead at a residence on Ray Boulevard.
Her father, Vincent Ostberg, previously told CBC in an interview that the family was informed she died by suicide.
“We continue to live with the reality that Jenna is no longer here and will never be here again,” said Melanie Beardy and Vincent Ostberg, Ostberg’s parents, in a media release issued by Falconers LLP on Thursday.
“We have waited for this report since the SIU first became involved in this matter in January 2024, more than 18 months ago. This long wait has been incredibly difficult for our family. Throughout this time, we have held on, hoping for answers and accountability.”
However, Ostberg’s family argued that the investigation failed to properly account for the circumstances surrounding her death and the local service’s “well-documented history of failing to protect the safety of First Nations persons in this city.”
In particular, the police’s response to three separate 911 calls made on the day of Ostberg’s death was under scrutiny.
“As the police service responsible for protecting First Nations people in Thunder Bay, the Thunder Bay Police Service has given us no reason to feel relief, closure or trust. We have no confidence in their ability to properly investigate deaths or ensure the safety of First Nations people,” said Ostberg’s parents.
“We will continue to fight for our daughter to have her voice be heard now that she cannot speak for herself. This journey has been long and painful, but we remain committed to honouring Jenna’s spirit and preserving her memory.”
As of Thursday, Falconers LLP said the family is still reviewing the report and considering their legal options.
“The family believes that more time is needed to study the SIU’s report and consider their next steps,” said Julian Falconer, the legal counsel for the family at Falconers LLP.
“Jenna’s family remains convinced that had the Thunder Bay Police Service responded to the first 911 call and followed their policy, Jenna would be alive today.”
Falconer said they will continue to support Ostberg’s family while they consider their options and look to ensure that all parties who potentially had a role in her death will be held accountable.
The statement concluded that the family would make no further comment at this time.
