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By Sam Bennison

Saik'uz First Nation

IIO investigating police response to death of Saik’uz woman

Dec 6, 2023 | 2:58 PM

NORTHERN B.C. — The Independent Investigations Office of B.C. is investigating the death of a woman near Vanderhoof.

On November 26, the IIO began an investigation when they were notified of concerns regarding the RCMP response to a request for a wellness check for a woman on the Saik’uz First Nation.

Vanderhoof RCMP confirmed that on October 11, mounties were called to conduct a wellness check at a residence. Officers took steps in locating the affected person but were unable to find her at the time.

The woman that was subject of the wellness check was found deceased on November 5, within one kilometere of that same residence.

Initial investigative steps will seek to confirm details leading up to the woman’s passing as well as what, if any role police actions or inaction may have played in the incident.

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The B.C. Coroners Service is conducting a parallel investigation into the cause of death.

If you have any relevant information or footage of the incident contact the Witness Line toll-free at 1-855-446-8477 or via the contact form on the iiobc.ca website.

And a note, though the IIO has not specifically named the subject of this investigation, as CKPG News previously reported, Chelsey Quaw was reported missing from Saik’uz First Nation on October 11, and RCMP confirmed she was found deceased on the Saik’uz territory on November 6.