(Sandy Lake, ON) – Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding a house fire and sudden death in Sandy Lake First Nations.
Members of the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service working out of the Sandy Lake First Nation detachment received a walk-in report at the detachment in the afternoon hours of Tuesday, Feb. 25, about a home on fire near the community’s Northern Store.
When police arrived on scene they observed the home to be completely engulfed in flames. Community firefighters also arrived on scene and worked to extinguish the blaze.
Police learned two people had escaped from the home, and were transported to the community nursing station for further evaluation and treatment of their injuries. Those injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
A third occupant remained unaccounted for.
Members of the NAPS Crime Unit are now involved in the continued investigation. Members of the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal, and OPP were also involved in the investigation.
On Wednesday, Feb. 26, human remains were located at the scene. Investigators, with the assistance of the Coroner’s Office, are now working toward identifying the deceased.
The investigation remains ongoing.