New Brunswick coroner says unsafe sleep tied to more than a third of infant deaths
Posted Jul 13, 2026 11:32:04 AM.
Last Updated Jul 13, 2026 11:33:26 AM.
FREDERICTON — A new report from New Brunswick’s chief coroner says unsafe sleeping practices were a factor in 36 per cent of infant deaths in the province between 2020 and 2025.
The coroner says unsafe practices include infants sleeping on their side or stomach, sharing beds, sleeping in adult beds or on couches and having soft bedding or toys in the sleep environment.
The report says unsafe sleeping conditions were a direct cause or contributing factor in the deaths of 20 children less than two years old between January 2020 and September 2025.
In 16 of the 20 cases, the coroner says unsafe practices were directly linked to the cause of death.
The report recommends strengthening safe sleep education and policy.
Federal recommendations are for infants to sleep alone, on their backs, in a crib or cradle free of blankets, pillows and toys.
“These findings reinforce the importance of safe sleep practices and the need for continued public awareness, education and collaboration across government, health-care providers and community partners,” Public Safety Minister Robert Gauvin said in a statement.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 13, 2026.
The Canadian Press
