Allan Legere dies at 78 while serving life sentence
Allan Legere, known as the ‘Monster of the Miramichi’, died at the age of 78 while serving a life sentence for his heinous crimes. His death marks the end of a notorious chapter in New Brunswick’s criminal history, where he killed five people over several years in the 1980s.
Legere was convicted on four counts of first-degree murder in November 1991, following a series of violent acts that included rape, arson, and murder. He had been serving a life sentence since January 22, 1987, and was declared a dangerous offender, which allowed for his permanent incarceration. His crimes left a profound impact on the Miramichi community, which still remembers the terror he inflicted.
In May 1989, Legere escaped from prison while being escorted to a medical appointment. This escape led to a manhunt that lasted 201 days, during which he committed further crimes, including the murder of Father James Smith, who was 69 years old at the time of his death. Legere was recaptured just nine days after this murder, and his subsequent trial revealed the extent of his violent history.
Legere’s escape and the subsequent murders shocked the nation, and he became a symbol of fear in the region. Frank McKenna, a former premier of New Brunswick, remarked, “I think I can say with some certainty that there’ll be a sigh of relief in the Miramichi and all across New Brunswick that this monster has finally left us.” This sentiment reflects the collective relief felt by many who lived in the shadow of his crimes.
Despite his incarceration, Legere was denied parole multiple times, including a recent denial in December 2022. The Parole Board of Canada had previously stated that he still presented an “undue risk to society” if released. André Veniot, a victim’s advocate, expressed his feelings about Legere’s death, stating, “The world is better for it,” and added, “I had made a promise to myself a few years ago that I would never talk again about Allan Legere unless he died.”
The Correctional Service of Canada has announced it will review the circumstances surrounding Legere’s death, although details remain unconfirmed. His passing may bring closure to the families of his victims and the community that suffered from his violent actions.
Legere’s legacy is a grim reminder of the impact of violent crime on society. As the Miramichi area continues to heal from the scars of his actions, the hope is that such atrocities will not be repeated in the future.
