Prince Rupert Dad Feared ‘Hit’ Before Family Tragedy, Inquest Reveals

Coroner Probes Mysterious Quadruple Death in Coastal Community

A coroner’s investigation opened Monday into the June 2023 deaths of four family members whose bodies were discovered inside their Prince Rupert residence. The proceedings revealed chilling details about the father’s pre-death fears of being targeted for assassination.

Fleeing Before Tragedy

Court testimony detailed that in the early hours of June 10, 2023, police discovered an abandoned Mercedes SUV containing suitcases and substantial cash. The vehicle’s owners, Janet Nguyen and Christopher Duong (both in their 30s), later returned to the scene reporting they feared professional assassins were pursuing them.

Officers testified that Duong had existing police contacts related to alleged drug trade involvement. Authorities detained Duong under mental health protocols while Nguyen and their children – aged two and four – were escorted home. Three days later, all four family members were found deceased inside the residence under circumstances still under examination.

Conflicting Perspectives Emerge

The inquest heard contradictory accounts about Duong’s recent history. Medical professionals described a serious 2022 vehicle collision that left him with significant brain trauma. However, police testimony and court documents presented Duong as an alleged violent drug trafficker, referencing a 2016 civil forfeiture case initiated by provincial authorities.

Protection Questions Raised

Legal counsel pressed RCMP officers about child welfare decisions, questioning why the children remained with parents amid potential threats. Const. Jason Kettle stated investigators found no corroborating evidence for the alleged assassination plot beyond the family’s claims.

The proceedings will continue throughout the week with expected testimony from death investigators and provincial child welfare officials. The coroner’s jury aims to determine factual circumstances surrounding the tragedy while making prevention-focused recommendations.