B.C. Inmate John Keyler Dies in Custody, Less Than 1 Year into Sentence

UPDATE: A convicted killer has died in custody at Kent Institution in Agassiz, B.C., less than a year into his sentence. John Wendell Keyler, aged 40, was found unresponsive on Thursday, according to a news release from the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC). The cause of death remains undisclosed, which is standard protocol for in-custody fatalities.

Keyler was serving a sentence of four years, 10 months, and 29 days, having begun his term on December 12, 2024. He had been convicted of manslaughter and indignity to human remains in January 2023, following the tragic death of his girlfriend, Sarah Foord, on July 7, 2020. While initially charged with murder, the B.C. Supreme Court found that the prosecution did not meet the burden of proof.

The horrific details of Foord’s death revealed that she was stabbed approximately 50 times in their Taylor, B.C., mobile home. Justice James W. Williams concluded that Keyler’s actions stemmed from a state of intoxication that led him to believe he was under threat, resulting in a conviction for a lesser charge. Keyler had claimed he acted out of paranoia and fear during a psychotic episode induced by drugs and alcohol.

Keyler’s criminal history was extensive, with a record of 62 prior convictions, including robbery and aggravated assault. However, during his time in custody, he reportedly showed signs of rehabilitation, becoming a “good worker” and actively participating in counseling programs.

Authorities confirm that Keyler’s next of kin have been informed of his death. The CSC will conduct a comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding the incident, in line with their policy for inmate fatalities.

This developing situation raises questions about safety and mental health support within the correctional system. As the CSC reviews the case, it remains imperative to understand the implications of Keyler’s death on ongoing discussions about inmate care and rehabilitation.

As more information becomes available, the community and Foord’s family continue to grapple with the impact of this tragic case. Stay tuned for updates on this urgent story as it unfolds.