Woman dies after spending time in jail

March 20, 2008

PORT HARDY – A woman died last week after spending time in RCMP cells.

Debbie Coon, 48, died in Victoria General Hospital after a series of events in the morning hours March 14, says an RCMP news release.

At about 4:20 that morning Port Hardy hospital requested assistance from RCMP in dealing with Coon who was causing a disturbance inside the hospital and appeared to be intoxicated. Medical staff cleared Coon for incarceration and she was taken to the Port Hardy detachment, says the release.

About 9:20 a.m. the guard observed the woman fall, striking her head. Coon did not lose consciousness, but an ambulance was called and she was taken back to hospital about 10 a.m.

While at Port Hardy hospital, Coon walked outside prior to being examined. She was located by hospital staff and returned to the hospital. While outside she had sustained a fresh head injury.

At 4:30 p.m. Coon was transported to Victoria General Hospital by air ambulance. She died at 10:15 p.m.

The BC Coroner's Service, Port Hardy RCMP and theVancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit are investigating. Foul play is not suspected.

Coon's death is the second one involving the cells at Port Hardy RCMP detachment in the last six months. A transient man who was arrested for causing a disturbance by being drunk in downtown Port Hardy, also hit his had while in a cell at the detachment. He lost consciousness, was transported to Port Hardy hospital. He was also flown to Victoria General but later died.

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Woman dies after spending time in jail

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