An incident occurred at a Walmart store in Canada, where the body of a 19-year-old employee was discovered inside the store’s walk-in oven.
The Halifax Regional Police received a call regarding a “sudden death” at the Mumford Road location on Saturday, October 19.
Upon arrival, authorities found the 19-year-old woman deceased. The police department issued an initial news release stating, “A 19-year-old woman employed at the store was found deceased.”
Investigators began working closely with Occupational Health and Safety and the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service to determine the cause and manner of death.
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A subsequent news release revealed that the 19-year-old “was located in a large walk-in oven belonging to the store’s bakery department.” Authorities emphasized that the investigation would be “complex” and involve “several partner agencies.” The release cautioned, “It is important to note that the investigation has not yet reached a point where the cause and manner of death have been confirmed.”
The police urged the public to refrain from sharing speculative information on social media, acknowledging the potential impact on the victim’s family and loved ones. The release stated, “Be mindful of sharing speculative information on social media… be aware of the impact speculation could have.”
Amanda Moss, Walmart spokesperson, issued a statement: “Our deepest thoughts are with our associate and their family. Our focus remains on taking care of our associates and making sure they have the support they need.” Moss emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and the store would remain closed until further notice.
Walmart is providing grief counseling to employees at the location, according to NBC News. The spokesperson did not confirm whether the 19-year-old was on shift at the time of her passing.
Police have not released the victim’s identity.
