The search for an escaped inmate from William Head Institution has come to a tragic end after authorities confirmed a body recovered off the coast of Metchosin is that of 69-year-old Ernest Egon Jensen.
In a brief update issued Monday, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) said Jensen’s body was recovered in the waters off Metchosin, bringing an end to the extensive search that began after he escaped from the minimum-security federal institution on Sunday.
Jensen was reported missing during the noon inmate count on June 28th, prompting staff at William Head Institution to notify West Shore RCMP at approximately 12:49 p.m.
An arrest warrant had been issued after he was declared unlawfully at large.
(1/2) A body has been recovered in the waters off Metchosin, Vancouver Island. Authorities have confirmed the deceased to be Ernest Egon Jensen, an inmate who was reported to have escaped from William Head Institution yesterday when he was unaccounted for. pic.twitter.com/6FxrERHzoZ
— Correctional Service (@CSC_SCC_en) June 29, 2026
Police immediately launched a large-scale search involving West Shore RCMP officers, Police Dog Services and RCMP Air Services.
Residents in the area were also advised to expect a significant police presence while both officers and correctional staff searched the surrounding area.
Jensen had been serving a life sentence for second-degree murder since March 20th, 1991. According to CSC, he had also previously served sentences for break and enter and trespassing.
During the search, police warned the public that Jensen was considered dangerous and should not be approached if seen.
Police have not released any additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the recovery of Jensen’s body or the cause of death.
More information is expected as the investigation continues.
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