In a tragic incident that has gripped the community, authorities have concluded that the death of a 19-year-old Walmart employee, found inside a store’s walk-in oven in Halifax, Canada, was accidental, with no evidence of foul play.
On October 19, 2024, Gursimran Kaur, an immigrant from India, was discovered deceased in the bakery department’s oven at the Mumford Road Walmart location. Her mother, also an employee at the store, made the heartbreaking discovery after noticing her daughter’s prolonged absence and unreachability by phone.
The Halifax Regional Police conducted a thorough investigation, collaborating with the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills, and Immigration. Their findings, released on November 18, determined that Kaur’s death was not suspicious, and no foul play was involved. The police have met with Kaur’s family to share these findings and have extended their condolences.
In response to the tragedy, the Maritime Sikh Society organized a GoFundMe campaign to support Kaur’s family, raising over $140,000. The campaign has since ceased accepting donations, with plans to distribute the funds to assist the grieving family.
Walmart Canada expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “We are heartbroken and our deepest thoughts are with our associate and their family.” The store temporarily closed following the incident but has since reopened.
This incident underscores the critical importance of workplace safety and the need for stringent protocols to prevent such tragedies. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, it also reflects on the measures necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of all employees in their workplaces.
