The Canadian government has deported Jaskirat Sidhu, the truck driver whose actions led to one of the nation's most devastating road tragedies, after he was granted full parole. Sidhu, whose sentence concluded with his release, has been sent to Australia, a move that has reopened deep wounds for the families of the 16 people killed.
A Catastrophic Collision That Shocked a Nation
In April 2018, Sidhu, then a newly qualified trucker, failed to heed a stop sign at a rural Saskatchewan intersection. His semi-trailer truck ploughed directly into a bus carrying the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team. The impact was catastrophic, instantly claiming the lives of 10 players and 6 team staff. Thirteen others sustained life-altering injuries.
An investigation revealed Sidhu was distracted by a flapping tarp on his load, leading to the fatal error. He pleaded guilty to 29 counts of dangerous driving and received an eight-year sentence.
Parole Board's Decision and Immediate Deportation
The Parole Board of Canada determined Sidhu, who had already served a portion of his sentence, was a low risk to re-offend and exhibited genuine remorse. His release was contingent on strict conditions, including prohibitions on driving and mandatory psychological counselling.
However, as a permanent resident and not a Canadian citizen, his criminal conviction triggered a mandatory deportation order. Immigration officials swiftly carried out the removal, transporting him directly from prison to a flight bound for Australia, where his wife resides.
Families' Fury and Lingering Grief
For the victims' families, the news has been a brutal blow. Many feel his deportation allows him to simply start a new life abroad, a privilege denied to their loved ones.
"It's like a slap in the face," said one grieving parent. "He gets to go on, while we are left with a lifetime of pain and an empty chair at every family gathering. The justice system has failed us."
While some acknowledge his remorse, the overarching sentiment is one of profound disappointment that his punishment has been cut short, leaving a permanent void where justice should be.
