A federal judge has temporarily halted the deportation of Jaskirat Singh Sidhu, the truck driver responsible for the 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash, granting a last-minute reprieve just days before his scheduled removal from Canada.
Sidhu, who pleaded guilty to dangerous driving after running a stop sign and colliding with a bus carrying the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League team, was sentenced to eight years in prison. The crash claimed 16 lives and injured 13 others, prompting a nationwide wave of grief.
Despite being granted full parole in 2023, Sidhu faced deportation due to immigration laws that render permanent residents inadmissible following serious criminal convictions. His legal team, led by lawyer Michael Greene, had requested a 17-month deferral to allow time for an application to restore his permanent resident status on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. The request was denied by the Canada Border Services Agency, prompting a legal challenge.
In a written decision, Federal Court Justice Jocelyne Gagné granted a stay of removal, citing evidence that Sidhu could suffer “irreparable harm” if deported, including risks linked to suicidal ideation and ongoing mental health conditions such as PTSD and major depressive disorder.
The ruling pauses Sidhu’s deportation until the court reaches a final decision on whether his case will proceed to a full judicial review. His lawyer described the decision as rare, noting it marks the first favourable outcome for Sidhu since legal proceedings began.
Sidhu’s family, including two young children—one with complex medical needs—expressed relief at the decision. However, the ruling has drawn criticism from some families affected by the crash. Michelle Straschnitzki, whose son was seriously injured, called the delay “absolutely ridiculous,” reflecting ongoing frustration among victims’ families.
The Federal Court is expected to determine in the coming months whether the case will move forward for a full hearing, with the timeline for a decision ranging from one to eight months.
