Infant Death Investigation in Eabametoong First Nation
THUNDER BAY, ON – In OPP jurisdiction, the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) is mandated to provide Major Case Management and oversight in all death investigations of children 5 years of age and under.
On March 13, 2016, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) was requested to assist Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service (NAPS) in relation to the death of an infant occurrence on Eabametoong First Nation.
On March 11, 2016 a six month old infant was airlifted from Eabametoong First Nation to London Health Sciences Centre in London, Ontario. The infant was in extreme medical distress.
On March 14, 2016 the infant passed away at the London Health Sciences Centre.
On March 15, 2016 a post mortem examination was conducted in London, Ontario. The determination of cause of death is pending further testing.
North West Region OPP Crime Unit personnel, OPP Forensic Identification Unit, and the OPP Aboriginal Policing Bureau are assisting and supporting the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service uniform and crime unit members in the investigation of this death, under the direction of OPP Detective Inspector Gilles Depratto of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB).
The investigation is continuing and further information will be provided as it becomes available.
Anyone with information in relation to this investigation is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
