Escaped inmate from Metchosin prison found dead

Escaped inmate from Metchosin prison found dead

Published 2:18 pm Monday, June 29, 2026

The body of Ernest Egon Jensen, 69, was found near the shoreline along William Head Institution June 29. (Photo via Correctional Service of Canada)

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) has confirmed that escaped inmate Ernest Egon Jensen, 69, has been found dead.

In a statement released just after 2 p.m. today (June 29), CSC said Jensen was found “in the ocean off the coast of Metchosin.”

West Shore RCMP said Jensen’s body was recovered near the shoreline along William Head Institution by the RCMP West Coast Marine Services alongside Metchosin Fire Department.

“Yesterday, CSC followed escape protocols and issued public notifications to seek the help of the public and media in locating the individual,” said the CSC.

A manhunt began for Jensen on the afternoon of Sunday (June 28), after staff discovered he was missing during the noon count.

West Shore RCMP were called immediately, and the grounds and surrounding area were searched. A dog team and air patrols were included in the search efforts.

At the time of death, the inmate was 69 years old and had been serving a life sentence for second degree murder since March 20, 1991. He has also served sentences for break and enter and trespassing.

The CSC said the inmate’s next of kin and any registered victims have been notified.

“As in all cases involving the death of an inmate, we will review the circumstances of the events of the past two days. CSC policy requires that the coroner be notified, who will be responsible for determining the cause of death.”

West Shore RCMP said the Serious Crimes Unit is in contact with CSC and the B.C Coroners Office, as the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Jensen is underway.

“We recognize that incidents like this are concerning, particularly for those who live in the surrounding area. We want to reassure the public that officers mobilized quickly, deploying significant resources immediately after the report from William Head Institution was received. Our priority has been and remains the safety of the public,” said a release from police.