Parole board grants full release to man convicted of 2017 trailer-hitch manslaughter

The Parole Board of Canada decided on Thursday to grant full parole to Brayden Bushby, who was convicted of manslaughter in the 2017 death of Barbara Kentner, a member of the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation. Bushby, sentenced in June 2021 to eight years, had his term reduced to seven years and 11 months for time already served. The board’s assessment considered victim impact statements, the Correctional Service of Canada’s recommendation, and a hearing presentation, concluding that his release would not present an undue risk and would support community safety through his reintegration.

He must adhere to seven conditions, including participation in substance-abuse treatment, abstaining from alcohol, and no contact with Kentner’s relatives. Bushby’s parole history includes day parole granted in August 2023, revoked in July 2024, reinstated in December 2025, and a further extension in June 2026.