RCMP launch homicide investigation in Fort St. James

FORT ST. JAMES — A homicide investigation has been launched in Fort St. James.

North District RCMP Cpl. Madonna Saunderson says on Monday (Feb.7), police were called to a residence for a woman reported to be in need of assistance. When officers arrived, they found a 39-year-old woman unresponsive and in medical distress. A 39-year-old man, the women’s partner, was arrested for aggravated assault and for breaching his release conditions.

RCMP say the woman died the next morning (Feb.8). The BC RCMP North District Major Crime Unit has taken over the investigation and police say the BC Coroners Service is involved.

“As the homicide investigation is still unfolding, names of the victim and accused are being withheld until the BC Prosecution Service has a chance to review the investigation and make an assessment on charge approval,” reads an RCMP release.