1776Reporting
The death of a 19-year-old Walmart worker in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has been ruled accidental, with authorities stating no foul play was involved. Gursimran Kaur, an employee of the store’s bakery department, was found deceased inside a walk-in oven on October 19. Police confirmed on Monday that their investigation uncovered no signs of suspicious activity.
Halifax Regional Police responded to the Walmart on Mumford Road after receiving reports of a sudden death. Upon arrival, they found Kaur inside a large oven used in the bakery.
“We conducted several interviews, reviewed video footage, and worked very closely with our partners at Nova Scotia Department of Labor and medical examiner service,” said Martin Cromwell, the public information officer for Halifax police. “We do not believe anyone else was involved in the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death.”
The police’s extensive investigation included gathering witness accounts and examining store surveillance footage. Authorities met with Kaur’s family to share their findings and offer condolences. Cromwell confirmed this update is expected to be the final one on the case.
A Mother’s Tragic Discovery
Kaur’s death has left her family and community reeling. Originally from India, she and her mother worked side-by-side at the Halifax Walmart for two years. On the day of the tragedy, Kaur’s mother began searching for her after noticing she hadn’t been seen for over an hour.
According to the Maritime Sikh Society, which launched a fundraiser to support the family, Kaur’s mother became alarmed when repeated calls to her daughter went unanswered.
“Imagine the horror that her mother experienced when she opened the oven, when someone pointed it out to her!” the organization stated in their appeal.
Community Support Amid Grief
The Maritime Sikh Society identified Kaur publicly and described her as a bright young woman. The organization has raised funds to assist her grieving family. The tragic loss has sparked an outpouring of support from the local community and beyond.
Walmart Canada expressed its sorrow over the incident and temporarily closed the store. The bakery department, specifically, was subject to a stop-work order issued by the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills, and Immigration. This order was lifted on October 28 after inspectors confirmed the oven was operating correctly.
Ongoing Workplace Investigation
With the police investigation concluded, the Department of Labour has taken over the workplace investigation. They are now reviewing the circumstances to ensure safety protocols were followed and to determine if any preventative measures should be implemented.
In a statement, the department said, “Now that Halifax Regional Police have concluded their investigation, effective November 18, the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration has assumed the lead in the ongoing workplace investigation.”
Meanwhile, Walmart has announced plans to remove the bakery oven as part of a nationwide remodeling initiative. The company told CBC News last week that this decision aligns with their broader efforts to update facilities across Canada.
Remembering Gursimran Kaur
Kaur’s death remains a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the challenges faced by young immigrants balancing work and family responsibilities. Her untimely passing has prompted calls for stricter workplace safety measures, particularly in environments with potentially hazardous equipment.
As her family and community mourn, her memory stands as a testament to the vibrant life she lived and the bonds she shared with those around her. The investigation’s conclusion may provide some closure, but the loss felt by her loved ones and colleagues will linger for years to come.
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