A heartbreaking tragedy struck Halifax on October 19 when a 19-year-old Walmart worker was found dead inside an industrial oven at the store’s bakery.
The young woman’s death has left her family and her community devastated, with so many unanswered questions still looming.
Gurismran Kaur, who had moved to Canada from India just a few years ago, was described as hardworking and beloved by those who knew her.
Embed from Getty ImagesShe was part of the Maritime Sikh Society, and her passing has rocked the local community, with people visiting the store to leave flowers in her honor.
Balbir Singh, secretary of the Maritime Sikh Society, expressed the community’s grief, saying, “It’s pretty distressing given young people come here with hopes and dreams.”
Police were called to the Walmart located at 6990 Mumford Road around 9:30 p.m. on the night of the incident.
Embed from Getty ImagesInitially, the details were sparse, leaving many in the community desperate for answers about how the tragedy unfolded. Investigators began piecing together the events leading to the young woman’s death, but the situation has remained shrouded in mystery.
As the investigation progressed, speculation swirled on social media about the circumstances of her death.
Embed from Getty ImagesWhile there are obviously so many questions, authorities have urged people not to jump to conclusions, reminding the public that “the investigation is in the early stages,” and the family deserves privacy during this difficult time.
Police have ruled out foul play.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Nova Scotia Department of Labour has issued a “stop work order” for the bakery along with certain pieces of equipment, although, specific details about the equipment involved have yet to be revealed.
Martin Cromwell, a Halifax police officer, described the investigation as “complex” and called for patience from the public.
Embed from Getty ImagesTragically, the woman’s mother, who is also in Canada, is receiving psychological counseling, according to Singh. He added, “Efforts are underway to bring other immediate family members from India.”
“We understand the public is involved,” Cromwell continued.
Embed from Getty Images“We just wanted to encourage the public to be patient with our investigation and be mindful that there are family members and coworkers involved,” the police officer added.
In the wake of the tragedy, a chilling new detail has emerged: the oven did not lock.

Initially, it was speculated that the woman was accidentally locked inside the oven due to a malfunction with the safety release button. Now, many are questioning how she could’ve been locked inside if there was no lock feature to begin with.
As the investigation continued, Walmart temporarily closed the store and provided grief counseling for staff members.
Embed from Getty ImagesA statement from the company expressed their heartbreak, saying, “We are heartbroken and our deepest thoughts are with our associate and their family.”
“We’re also supporting our associates during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement continued.
Embed from Getty ImagesIn an effort to help those struggling with the loss, Walmart has “provided access to 24/7 virtual care and will provide on-site support, including grief counselling.” As they should.
As Halifax mourns this tragic loss, the community waits anxiously for more information.