Police are investigating a troubling death.
A 19-year-old woman and employee of Walmart was found dead in the store on Oct. 19, an update from local Halifax Regional Police confirmed.
According to the Oct. 22 release, the victim—whose identity has not been shared by authorities at this time—was “located in a large walk-in oven belonging to the store’s bakery department.”
Authorities noted the investigation is complex and involves “several partner agencies,” and that it might take a “significant amount of time.” They also asked the public not to share speculative information online in respect towards the woman’s family.
“The investigation,” the update added, “has not yet reached a point where the cause and manner of death have been confirmed.”
E! News has reached out to police for comment but has not yet heard back.
A spokesperson for Walmart confirmed to E! News the store is temporarily closed until further notice in order to accommodate the investigation.
The spokesperson continued, “We are heartbroken and 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. As police have stated, this is a very complex matter and the investigation is ongoing.”
Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesAccording to ABC News, a spokesperson for the company confirmed Walmart is offering employees on-site support, including grief counseling, in addition to access to virtual care.
The outlet also noted, citing police, law enforcement is working in tandem with Occupational Health and Safety and the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service for the investigation.
The Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration confirmed a stop work order was issued on Oct. 22 for both the store’s bakery and its walk-in oven.
“As this is an active investigation, we cannot release further details at this time,” the department said in a statement, adding investigations at workplaces “are complex and can take time.”
