Investigation launched after missing N.B. long-term care resident dies

An elderly woman who went missing on Friday has died after being found in medical distress, according to the Codiac RCMP.

In a release, police say the 83-year-old woman from Moncton was found shortly after 1 p.m. on Saturday.

“When located, the woman was in medical distress. First aid was administered on scene by RCMP members and she was transferred to the care of Ambulance New Brunswick,” the release said.

“The woman died before being transported to hospital.”

In a statement released Monday, the Department of Social Development confirmed the woman was a long-term care resident and said an investigation into her death was ongoing.

“It is a tragedy that a death has occurred and on behalf of myself and the department, we express our sincere condolences to friends and relatives,” said Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch.

“It is a tragedy that a death has occurred and on behalf of myself and the department, we express our sincere condolences to friends and relatives.
The safety and wellbeing of all long-term care residents is always a top priority for the department and we always take any concerns very seriously.”

The statement went on to say that the department is working in cooperation with organizations, including Codiac Regional RCMP, as part of the investigation.
“Facilities have a strict set of standards to follow and Social Development makes sure all facilities undergo regular, comprehensive inspections.  The inspections help ensure facility operators are offering the best care and services possible according to the standards,” Fitch said.

Police spent much of Saturday searching for the woman in the Moncton area.

“The RCMP expresses their condolences to her friends and family,” the release said. “The RCMP would also like to thank the public for their assistance.”