Halifax Regional Police are investigating the death of a 19-year-old Walmart employee found inside a walk-in bakery oven at the store on Saturday, October 19, 2024.
The incident, which occurred in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has raised significant concerns regarding workplace safety.
Police were called to the Walmart location around 9:30 PM on Saturday, where they discovered the woman's body inside the large oven in the bakery department.
Although the police have not released her name, reports indicate she was a member of the local Sikh community.
The cause and manner of her death remain undetermined, and authorities are describing the investigation as "complex." It involves collaboration with Occupational Health and Safety and the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service.
A Walmart spokesperson, Amanda Moss, expressed condolences on behalf of the company, stating, “We are heartbroken and our deepest thoughts are with our associate and their family.”
The store has been closed since the incident, and Walmart is providing on-site support, including grief counseling and access to virtual care for employees.
The Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration issued a stop work order on the bakery and a piece of equipment at the store as the investigation continues.
The department emphasized that workplace investigations can be intricate and time-consuming.
Halifax Regional Police have urged the public to refrain from speculating about the circumstances surrounding the woman's death, warning that such speculation could affect her family and colleagues.
They are committed to thoroughly examining the situation and have called for respect during this sensitive time.
As the investigation progresses, the community is left mourning the loss of a young worker, and questions about safety protocols in the workplace are likely to arise.
The incident highlights the ongoing concerns regarding occupational safety standards in retail environments, prompting calls for a review of practices to ensure the well-being of employees.
Further updates are expected as authorities continue their investigation into this tragic event.
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