Regan Russell, a 65-year-old Canadian animal rights activist, died on June 19, 2020, after being run over by a livestock transport truck outside a slaughterhouse in Burlington, Ontario, during a protest. The driver, who pleaded guilty to careless driving, received a fine and probation, which many activists felt was too lenient, leading to continued calls for justice and legislative change, particularly regarding "ag gag" laws like Ontario's Bill 156, which she was protesting.
Death of Regan Russell - Wikipedia
Details of the incident.
Date and Location.
June 19, 2020, at the Fearmans slaughterhouse in Burlington, Ontario.
Circumstances.
Russell was participating in a Toronto Pig Save vigil, protesting Bill 156, which criminalizes filming inside farms and trucks. As a truck turned into the plant, she stepped into the driveway, and her body was dragged several feet before the truck stopped.
Since I couldn't find the uncensored videos, I'll have to use news reports about the incident.
Toronto Star.
The moment of her death occurs at 02:50.
NowThis Impact.
The key moments are at 01:53 and 02:03 (the censorship fails for a few seconds at the latter).
Driver's Plea.
In March 2023, Blake pleaded guilty to careless driving causing death and was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine (equivalent to $2,090 in 2025), placed on 12-month probation, and restricted to driving only for work purposes.
Aftermath and activism.
Legal Outcome.
Many felt the punishment was insufficient, and the driver was able to continue driving with restrictions.
Activist Response.
The incident sparked outrage, with activists calling for justice and the repeal of Bill 156, which they argue shields animal cruelty.
Legacy.
Russell is remembered as a dedicated activist, and her death has become a rallying point for animal rights movements, with annual vigils and campaigns to honor her memory and fight for animal justice.
Death of Regan Russell - Wikipedia
Details of the incident.
Date and Location.
June 19, 2020, at the Fearmans slaughterhouse in Burlington, Ontario.
Circumstances.
Russell was participating in a Toronto Pig Save vigil, protesting Bill 156, which criminalizes filming inside farms and trucks. As a truck turned into the plant, she stepped into the driveway, and her body was dragged several feet before the truck stopped.
Since I couldn't find the uncensored videos, I'll have to use news reports about the incident.
Toronto Star.
The moment of her death occurs at 02:50.
NowThis Impact.
The key moments are at 01:53 and 02:03 (the censorship fails for a few seconds at the latter).
Driver's Plea.
In March 2023, Blake pleaded guilty to careless driving causing death and was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine (equivalent to $2,090 in 2025), placed on 12-month probation, and restricted to driving only for work purposes.
Aftermath and activism.
Legal Outcome.
Many felt the punishment was insufficient, and the driver was able to continue driving with restrictions.
Activist Response.
The incident sparked outrage, with activists calling for justice and the repeal of Bill 156, which they argue shields animal cruelty.
Legacy.
Russell is remembered as a dedicated activist, and her death has become a rallying point for animal rights movements, with annual vigils and campaigns to honor her memory and fight for animal justice.
