A woman who caused a fatal collision by driving in the wrong direction on a divided highway has been granted pre-approval for day parole, which she will become eligible for next month. Brittany Barry, aged 35, admitted to driving under the influence, resulting in the deaths of Laura Hannah, 53, and Jamie Hannah, 20, as well as injuries to her own two children who were passengers in the vehicle. The tragic incident occurred on October 19, 2024, on Highway 11 near Dundurn, approximately 35 kilometers southeast of Saskatoon.
Barry is currently in the middle of serving a six-year prison term that began on March 14, 2025. According to the rules, federal inmates can apply for full parole after serving one-third of their sentence and can seek day parole six months before that milestone. In a recent ruling dated August 11, the Parole Board of Canada approved Barry’s request to transition to a community-based residential facility, commonly referred to as a halfway house, once she becomes eligible for day parole.
Despite objections from the victims’ family members who believe it is premature for Barry to be released, the parole board acknowledged her remorse and efforts towards personal development. Barry has pledged to lead a sober life and steer clear of criminal activities to honor the victims and ensure the safety of her children. The parole conditions for Barry include abstaining from alcohol, avoiding bars, refraining from driving, and complying with prescribed treatment and counseling. Additionally, she is forbidden from contacting the victims’ family, except for her own children, and the board emphasized reinforcing her existing seven-year driving ban. Throughout her incarceration, Barry has been held in minimum security with no behavioral concerns reported.