A 35-year-old woman, Brittany Barry, who caused a fatal collision by driving the wrong way on a divided highway and killing two individuals, has received pre-approval for day parole. Barry admitted to driving under the influence, resulting in the deaths of Laura Hannah, 53, and Jamie Hannah, 20, as well as injuring her own children who were passengers in the vehicle. The incident occurred on October 19, 2024, along Highway 11 near Dundurn, approximately 35 kilometers southeast of Saskatoon.
Having served about 1.5 years of her six-year prison sentence, which commenced on March 14, 2025, Barry now qualifies for parole consideration. According to the Parole Board of Canada, federal prisoners become eligible for full parole after serving one-third of their sentence, with the option to apply for day parole six months in advance. In a recent decision on August 11, Barry’s application for release to a halfway house upon eligibility for day parole was approved by the board.
Despite objections from the victims’ family members who believe it is premature for Barry’s release, citing the gravity of her offense, the parole board considered her acknowledgment of guilt and efforts toward personal development. Barry expressed a commitment to sobriety, emphasizing her desire to lead a responsible life for her children and avoid a return to criminal behavior.
During her incarceration in minimum security, Barry’s conduct has been satisfactory, prompting the board to grant her “leave privileges” while residing at the halfway house. These privileges include unsupervised temporary absences for family visits, church attendance, and participation in Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. The conditions of Barry’s day parole entail abstaining from alcohol, refraining from entering bars, complying with treatment and counseling requirements, and maintaining a seven-year driving ban.
The parole board emphasized the prohibition on direct or indirect contact with the victims’ family, except for her own children, as part of ensuring Barry’s accountability and adherence to the conditions set forth.
