A woman who caused a fatal collision by driving the wrong way on a divided highway has been granted pre-approval for day parole, scheduled for next month. Brittany Barry, aged 35, admitted guilt to drunk driving, resulting in the deaths of Laura Hannah, 53, and Jamie Hannah, 20, and injuring her own two children. The tragic incident occurred on October 19, 2024, on Highway 11 near Dundurn, approximately 35 kilometers southeast of Saskatoon.
Barry is currently serving a six-year prison term, which commenced on March 14, 2025. According to guidelines, federal prisoners qualify for full parole after serving one-third of their sentence and can apply for day parole six months prior to that time. Recently, on August 11, the Parole Board of Canada sanctioned Barry’s release to a community-based residential facility, commonly referred to as a halfway house, upon her eligibility for day parole.
Although the victims’ family members expressed concerns about the early release, citing the severity of the crime, the parole board acknowledged Barry’s acknowledgment of responsibility and efforts towards personal development. Emphasizing a commitment to sobriety and responsible decision-making to protect her children, Barry received approval for day parole with conditions that include abstaining from alcohol, avoiding bars, refraining from driving, and complying with treatment and counseling directives.
While Barry is subject to a seven-year driving prohibition as part of her sentence, the parole board reinforced the no-driving condition to support this restriction. Barry’s plan for day parole includes unescorted temporary absences for family visits, church attendance, and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, with strict limitations on contact with the victims’ family, except for her own children. Throughout her incarceration, Barry has demonstrated good behavior in minimum security, without any behavioral concerns.
