Brayden Bushby, the individual found guilty of manslaughter in the unfortunate passing of Barbara Kentner in Thunder Bay, Ont., has been granted an extension of three additional months on day parole at a community-based residential facility. The Parole Board of Canada made this determination based on recently acquired documents by CBC News.
Kentner, a member of Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, is fondly remembered by her relatives as a caring mother, sister, cousin, and aunt. She was 34 years old when she succumbed to medical complications after being struck by a trailer hitch thrown at her from a moving vehicle. This incident shed light on the prevalent issue of violence disproportionately affecting Indigenous women and girls.
In June 2021, Bushby was sentenced to eight years in prison for Kentner’s demise, which was later reduced to seven years and 11 months due to time served. Following his initial day parole grant in August 2023, subsequently revoked in July 2024 for breaching conditions, Bushby was granted day parole again in December 2025 for a six-month period, with full parole denied.
The Parole Board of Canada has scheduled a panel hearing to assess Bushby’s eligibility for full parole down the line. The parole board documents note the gravity of Bushby’s offense and stress the importance of demonstrating improved behavior and skills to prevent relapses into high-risk conduct.
Correctional Service Canada advocates for Bushby’s full parole, contingent on strict adherence to conditions such as abstaining from alcohol and drugs, complying with curfew regulations, disclosing relationships, and avoiding associations with individuals linked to criminal activities or Kentner’s family members. Additionally, Bushby is required to follow a tailored treatment plan addressing substance abuse, mental health, and emotional management issues.
The journey to potential full parole for Bushby has been marked by instances of concerning behavior, including the display of a Confederate flag tattoo, involvement in a vehicle collision and suspected theft, and being found under the influence of alcohol during a traffic stop. However, recent observations suggest a positive shift in his attitude and behavior, with indications of remorse and a commitment to personal improvement.
Support from Correctional Service Canada and Bushby’s expressed intentions to maintain a healthy lifestyle suggest progress towards reintegration into society. Bushby’s aspirations include residing in Ontario, where he has secured employment and possesses family backing and financial resources. The timing of his full parole panel hearing remains undisclosed.
For those affected by missing and murdered Indigenous individuals, immediate emotional support is available through a national hotline at 1-844-413-6649. Mental health counseling and crisis intervention services can be accessed 24/7 via the Hope for Wellness hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or online at www.hopeforwellness.ca.