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Press Release

January 12, 2016

An in custody death in Inuvik has Inuvik RCMP requesting assistance from an external agency.

On January 9, 2016, RCMP received a complaint from a concerned citizen about person believed to be intoxicated walking along Bonnetplume Road in Inuvik. Members conducted a patrol and located an intoxicated female. The female was arrested without incident for being intoxicated in public. Police escorted the female to the Inuvik Hospital for a medical assessment, where she was considered fit for incarceration by the medical staff. The female was then escorted to the Inuvik RCMP Detachment where she was lodged in cells, slated for release once sober. The female was co-operative with police throughout her arrest and time in custody.

On January 10, 2016, the female prisoner was in process of being released from custody when she unexpectedly went into medical distress. RCMP administered first aid on scene and subsequently the female was escorted to the Inuvik Hospital where she was treated by medical staff. She unfortunately passed away.

In keeping with the RCMP’s commitment to external review of such cases, Medicine Hat Police Service will conduct a review of the circumstances related to this death.

The cause of the female’s death has not been determined at this time. The investigation is continuing with the assistance of the Office of the Chief Coroner of the Northwest Territories.

Family of the deceased has been notified of her passing.

Given the independent review underway, no further details can be released at this time. Enquiries related to the Medicine Hat Police Service’s review of this matter should be directed to them at 403.529.8421.

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Contact information

Cst. Kevin Devoe
Royal Canadian Mounted Police Media Liaison
“G” Division RCMP – Inuvik, NT
Cell: 902- 719-4120
kevin.p.devoe@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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