The Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario has announced an official date and time of the inquest into the mysterious death of a woman more than four years ago. Tanya Hornjakov was an inmate at Central North Correctional Centre in Penetanguishene. The maximum-security adult facility was formerly known as the “Super Jail.” Hornjakov, 46, died on Sept. 19, 2022, after being transferred from the Penetanguishene jail to a nearby hospital. The circumstances around what exactly caused her death remain unclear. In early November, Dr. Joel Kirsh, Regional Supervising Coroner for the Central East Office, announced the inquest into the death of Hornjakov. On Friday, the coroner’s office announced the inquest is set to take place via video conference, starting at 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 7, 2026. The inquest is expected to last up to six days and at least five witnesses are expected to speak during the process. A statement issued by the coroner’s office reads, “the inquest will examine the circumstances surrounding Ms. Hornjakov’s death.” “The jury may make recommendations aimed at preventing further deaths.” Unlike a criminal trial, a coroner’s inquest does not assign blame or determine legal responsibility. During the inquest, led by Krish, Dr. Anthony MacDonald will be the presiding officer and Phillip Tsui will be the inquest counsel. The inquest is open to public viewing via a link shared by the coroner’s office.
