The Case of Holly Bartlett

Background

• Incident Date: March 2010
• Location: Halifax Harbour, under Mackay Bridge
• Victim: Holly Bartlett, a 31-year-old legally blind grad student
• Condition: Found unconscious, died in hospital
• Cause of Death: Blunt force trauma to the head, severe hypothermia

Circumstances of Death

• Scene: Holly found at the foot of the bridge, body temperature dropping
• Police Version: Deemed a tragic accident; believed Holly was drunk, disoriented, and fell
• Mother's Perspective: Believes investigation built on assumptions

Holly's Life and Personality

• Condition: Born with microphthalmia; legally blind by age 13
• Personality: Dry sense of humor, resilient, adventurous
• Achievements: In grad school, learned swing dancing, went skydiving
• Last Night: Celebrated with friends, had six drinks over six hours

Investigation and Doubts

• Initial Investigation: Quickly concluded by police as an accident
• Mother's Concern: Investigation concluded before Holly's service
• Friend's Doubt: Peter Parsons questioned the police conclusion, noting Holly’s orientation skills

Taxi Driver's Testimony

• Driver: Paul Fraser, last known person to see Holly
• Initial Statement: Claimed Holly was 8/10 drunk but later changed his story
• Allegations: Accused of overcharging Holly; denies it later
• Actions: Returned to check on Holly after seeing her fall, but did not stop immediately

Investigation Lapses

• Security Footage: Taxi seen returning to the building
• New Police Chief: Admitted investigation holes, called for a second review

Ongoing Review

• Current Action: Quebec City Police reviewing the case and procedures
• Outcome: Report expected; case not reopened unless new evidence emerges

Family's Hope

• Marion Bartlett: Feels the investigation was inadequate
• Future: The case review underway, but outcome uncertain

Key Quotes

• Holly: "I've never let the fact that I can't see stop me from doing anything. If I really want to get somewhere, I'll find a way to do it."