Halifax police confirm body of Walmart employee was found in walk-in oven

Walmart Employee Found Deceased in Halifax Walk-in Oven

Police have confirmed that the body of an employee who died at a Walmart in Halifax over the weekend was discovered in a walk-in oven.

Halifax Regional Police (HRP) responded to a sudden death at the store on Mumford Road around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Authorities state that the 19-year-old woman was located in a large walk-in oven associated with the store’s bakery department.

“It is important to note that the investigation has not yet reached a point where the cause and manner of death have been confirmed,” HRP Const. Martin Cromwell stated in a news release on Tuesday. “The investigation is complex and involves several partner agencies. An investigation of this nature may take a significant amount of time.”

This confirmation follows speculation about the woman's death circulating on social media and within the community, leading police to caution residents against making assumptions online.

“We urge the public to be mindful of sharing speculative information on social media,” said Cromwell. “Please be aware of the impacts that speculation could have on family, colleagues, and loved ones of the woman.”

The woman’s identity has not been disclosed, but the Maritime Sikh Society confirmed to CTV News that she was a member of their community who had relocated to Nova Scotia two to three years ago.

Walmart issued a statement on Sunday acknowledging the incident and expressing their support for staff.

“We are heartbroken and our deepest thoughts are with our associate and their family. We extend our sincerest condolences to those who were closest to them,” said spokesperson Amanda Moss. “We’re also supporting our associates during this incredibly difficult time and have provided access to 24/7 virtual care and will provide on-site support, including grief counselling.”

The Walmart on Mumford Road has remained closed since Saturday evening, with no update on when it might reopen.