The "suspicious" death of a patient at an old folks home in Abbotsford has now been classified a homicide.As a result, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team has taken over the case.According to the Abbotsford Police Department, two patients were transported to hospital from the Menno Home on July 6 while "experiencing medical emergencies that raised concerns due to their suspicious nature." Just four days later, one of them passed away."Investigators have been diligently following the evidence to uncover the circumstances surrounding the death of one individual and the hospitalization of another from Menno Home," Sgt. Paul Walker said while explaining that the case had been transferred to IHIT.In a statement, IHIT said it will work to "determine the circumstances of the death and whether criminality is a factor.""Understandably, this has raised concerns, especially for those living in care homes and for families of residents," Cpl. Sukhi Dhesi added. "We recognize there are many questions, and I can assure you that IHIT is actively working to advance the investigation and find answers." The Menno Home, which is owned by the Mennonite Benevolent Society, has noted it is aware that the death has been classified a homicide."I am deeply saddened by this situation," CEO Sujata Connors said. "We continue to fully support the police investigation and will continue to do so as the investigation evolves. We are doing everything we can to assist them in bringing clarity, answers and resolution."Neither the identities of the patients, nor the details of their medical emergencies, have been made public.
