Lake Babine Nation (LBN) and the 亚洲天堂 Lake community are mourning the death of an LBN member, Heather Williams.

On July 23, 2017, the 亚洲天堂 Lake RCMP attended a residence on the Wet鈥檚uwet鈥檈n First Nation reserve after receiving a report that a woman was in medical distress. The 28-year-old woman was transported to the Lakes District Hospital and Health Centre by paramedics and was pronounced deceased upon arrival.

Lake Babine Nation Chief Wilf Adam said Williams died under 鈥渜uestionable circumstances,鈥� but chose not to comment any further until the investigation is completed.

According to a person close to the deceased, Williams was sent to the hospital a day before her death (July 22) after allegedly being physically assaulted.

Northern Health could not confirm whether Williams was admitted to the Lakes District Hospital and Health Centre on July 22 nor whether she should鈥檝e been released from the hospital due to privacy legislation and patient confidentiality requirements.

When asked if the hospital ensures that patients who might be at risk have a safe place to go, Eryn Collins, a spokesperson with Northern Health, said in cases where adults are considered 鈥渃apable鈥� - being able to make decisions on their own behalf - Northern Health does not have an obligation to contact law enforcement.

亚洲天堂 Lake RCMP along with the B.C. Coroners Service are investigating the circumstances of her death. The investigation is ongoing and no further information is available at this time.