Trucker Found Guilty In Death Of Vegan Activist Regan Russell To Pay $2,000 Fine

Truck driver Andrew Blake has been found guilty of careless driving causing the death of vegan activist Regan Russell outside a Canadian slaughterhouse. In a video court appearance, Blake was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine and given a 12-month probation period limiting his driving to work-related purposes. The incident occurred during a vigil at a Toronto pig slaughterhouse when Russell was hit by Blake’s truck as he turned into the plant.

Both the Crown and defense lawyers agreed that Blake should have been aware of Russell’s presence near the driveway when he turned into the slaughterhouse, although there was no evidence of intentional harm. Russell was a well-known animal rights activist who inspired a worldwide protest movement after her death, and actor Joaquin Phoenix paid tribute to her. Despite the guilty plea bringing closure to the case, Russell’s family members and fellow activists continue to mourn her loss and carry on her legacy.