WIKWEMIKONG FIRST NATION – Police have arrested and charged a man and a woman in relation to an infant death investigation in Wikwemikong First Nation on Manitoulin Island.
Both accused are of Wikwemikong First Nation and have been charged under the Criminal Code with manslaughter, criminal negligence causing death and failing to provide the necessaries of life.
In a news release, Ontario Provincial Police said that on May 8, 2023, the Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service (WTPS) commenced an investigation after an infant was transported to hospital.
On May 15, 2023, WTPS requested assistance from the OPP. The OPP said assistance was provided under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, with support from the Manitoulin OPP Detachment.
The infant was pronounced deceased on May 16, the OPP said in a news release.
Following the investigation, on Aug, 22, 2024, a 33-year-old female was arrested. On Aug. 26, 2024, a 34-year-old male was arrested.
One of the accused has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Wikwemikong on Sept. 3.
The other remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Wikwemikong on Aug. 27 for a bail hearing.
Police said a publication ban has been issued and no further information will be released.
Anyone with information in relation to this investigation is encouraged to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.