Police investigate suspicious death of woman in Merritt

Police in Merritt are investigating a suspicious death after a woman was found with fatal injuries over the weekend, prompting the involvement of the RCMP’s Major Crime Unit.

Mounties say officers were called on December 20 to assist BC Emergency Health Services in the 2000-block of Nicola Avenue after reports of a woman in medical distress. The woman, a Merritt resident in her 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene.

RCMP have confirmed the circumstances surrounding the death are considered suspicious, and the Southeast District Major Crime Unit has taken over conduct of the investigation. Police have not released details about the nature of the injuries or whether any suspects are being sought.

The incident has raised concerns in the small Interior community, where serious violent crime is relatively uncommon. Investigators say they are continuing to gather evidence and speak with potential witnesses as they work to determine what led to the woman’s death.

Anyone who may have information and has not yet spoken with police is asked to contact the Southeast District Major Crime Unit information line at 1-877-987-8477.