Family and supporters of Barbara Kentner, along with Indigenous leaders, demonstrated at Parliament Hill in Ottawa to express concerns over the recent full parole granted to the individual responsible for Kentner’s death. Kentner, a 34-year-old from Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, passed away in 2017 due to medical complications stemming from being hit by a trailer hitch thrown by Brayden Bushby from a moving vehicle.
Now 27, Bushby was released on full parole with conditions on August 13, according to documents from the Parole Board of Canada. Connie Kentner, Barbara’s sister, emphasized the impact of such decisions on the victims’ families and communities, stressing the need for justice and protection for Indigenous women and girls.
Despite objections from Kentner’s family, the Parole Board of Canada stated that releasing Bushby on full parole would not pose undue risk and would aid in his reintegration into society as a law-abiding citizen. Kentner’s family expressed disappointment in feeling let down by a justice system that should prioritize the needs of crime victims.
The family was not informed in advance about Bushby’s full parole, a recurrence from when he was granted day parole in August 2023. Subsequently, his day parole was revoked in July 2024 due to violations, and he was granted day parole again in December 2025 for six months with no full parole approval. Recent reports indicate an extension of his day parole in June 2026.
During his time in federal corrections, Bushby engaged in concerning behavior, including failing to report a vehicle collision, displaying symbols of hate like a Confederate flag tattoo, and creating a swastika on the grounds of a federal institution.
At the demonstration in Ottawa, a representative of the Parole Board of Canada received a letter from Barbara Kentner’s family. The board expressed sympathy for the family’s suffering but refrained from commenting directly on Bushby’s release due to privacy regulations. However, the board assured that registered victims have rights to receive information, attend hearings, submit victim statements, and request access to hearing recordings.
First Nation leaders at the event demanded a culturally safe support service for Indigenous victims and families navigating the federal corrections and parole system. The Chiefs of Ontario stressed the importance of providing direct information to families, supporting their rights, and offering continuous assistance throughout the legal process.
Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh from Grand Council Treaty #3 highlighted the prevalence of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit individuals, calling for justice and denouncing systemic racism and hatred. Kavanaugh shared a personal account of his daughter experiencing racism in Thunder Bay, emphasizing the need for systemic change and accountability.
Despite the challenges, Connie Kentner remains determined to keep her sister’s memory alive and seek justice for Barbara. The family vows to continue fighting for fairness and accountability in the face of adversity.
