Update: Police say a sudden death investigation involving a boy on the Ochapowace First Nation has concluded with no indication of suspicious circumstances.
"Following consultation with the Saskatchewan Coroners Service, investigation has confirmed the boy’s death is not suspicious. His family has been notified.
"The Saskatchewan Coroners Service is investigating to determine cause of death. As this is considered a sudden death investigation with no criminal element, the police do not have any other information to provide, and we don’t anticipate further updates," RCMP said in a news release on Dec. 24.
Original report: OCHAPOWACE FIRST NATION — Broadview RCMP is investigating the sudden death of a pre-teen boy that is causing concern in the community over how the boy died.
In a release, RCMP stated, "We understand there is conversation happening locally and at this time the RCMP cannot confirm whether or not the boy’s death was the result of an animal mauling, if weather or another element was a factor."
The release went on to say the RCMP is asking the public to refrain from any vigilante action towards animals.
The boy was found dead outdoors on the Ochapowace First Nation the evening of Dec. 20. RCMP say the Initial investigation has determined the boy left a residence on the Ochapowace First Nation on foot around 5 p.m., destined for another residence in the community. He was located deceased by someone passing by the area just before 8 p.m. several hundred metres from the original residence.
Following initial investigation and consultation with RCMP Major Crimes, at this time the boy’s sudden death is not considered suspicious, say police, adding that an autopsy by the Saskatchewan Coroners Service must be conducted to confirm the boy’s cause of death.
"Pending autopsy results, the appropriate authorities will determine next steps, if any, to mitigate any concerns," states the RCMP release.
The RCMP is not providing any other identifying details about the boy at this time, but has sent its deepest condolences to the boy’s family and the community at large during this very difficult time.
