October 15, 2025
RED FM News Desk
A Death Review Panel convened by the BC Coroners Service has released a significant report containing key recommendations aimed at reducing deaths by suicide and providing better support for young people in British Columbia.
The panel reviewed the deaths of 435 young individuals who died by suicide between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2023. The report, titled “Creating Connection, Supporting Strengths,” highlights that suicide is the second-leading cause of death among children and youth in BC, and the third-leading cause among adults aged 19 to 29.
Chief Coroner Dr. Jatinder Baidwan stated that deaths by suicide are preventable, and it is the collective responsibility of all to ensure that young people receive timely support.
The panel put forth five key recommendations to prevent future deaths:
The first recommendation involves creating and implementing a Provincial Framework—a suicide-risk-reduction framework specifically focused on youth.
Other recommendations include Data Improvement, a review of School Resources, establishing a training model for doctors, nurses, paramedics, and other emergency medical professionals, and developing a ‘Third Spaces’ Strategy to create supportive community venues for young people.
Ryan Panton, Chair of the panel, said the recommendations are action-oriented and, when implemented, will improve life for all young British Columbians.
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