The first child death inquiry in Newfoundland and Labrador's history is set to begin as a five-person panel examines the death of a 13-month-old killed by his mother.

Zachary Turner was drowned by his mother, Dr. Shirley Turner, before she drowned herself in August.

Shirley Turner and son Zachary
Shirley Turner and son Zachary

Turner, who was raised in Newfoundland, had been released on bail while fighting extradition to the United States on a charge of murdering the boy's father, Andrew Bagby, in November 2001.

Child and youth advocate Lloyd Wicks appointed an advisory panel Friday that includes a retired RCMP commissioner, a social worker, a pediatrician and a lawyer. The group will examine how the provincial Health and Community Services Department dealt with Turner while she cared for her son.

"They're all objective people, independent people and I'm glad I was able to attract their interest," said Wicks.

David Bagby
David Bagby

Bagby's parents have been critical of the way the province's courts and social services handled the Turner case, saying Turner should have never been allowed custody of Zachary. They've been seeking a formal review.

Zachary's grandmother, Kathleen Bagby, says the family is feeling relief and satisfaction with the work of the child advocate.

"We have a long way to go still," she said. "But we think that (Mr.) Wicks is going along the right way, and we have great faith in him and the team."

Zachary's grandfather, David Bagby, says they can't get on with their lives until the inquiry is finished.

"I hope that we can find enough answers to be able to state with certainty that Zachary Turner's death was not in vain," said David Bagby.

The investigation could take up to eight months.