Update in sudden death

Posted:

EN

The investigation into the sudden death of a woman at a Dalhousie University residence last month has concluded.

At approximately 3:20 a.m. on November 13, officers responded to 1246 Lemarchant Street, a Dalhousie University Student Residence, to assist EHS with a medical-related emergency. A 19-year-old female international student was pronounced deceased at the scene. At the request of the family, the woman’s name will not be released.

An autopsy was conducted the same day, however, the cause of death was not immediately obvious and additional testing was required. As a result of further testing, the Medical Examiner has determined that the cause of death was ethanol intoxication (alcohol poisoning); the investigation determined that the woman consumed a substantial amount of alcohol in a short period of time. Additionally, investigators have ruled out foul play in the woman’s death. We express our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the young woman as well as the overall Dalhousie community. We also thank Dalhousie University for their assistance and cooperation as we conducted this investigation.

At the beginning of each school year, police work with officials at various schools to educate students on responsible drinking and the dangers of the overconsumption of alcohol. Sadly, this tragic case reinforces the need to again educate the public on this subject.

Binge drinking is defined as having many drinks on one occasion: five or more drinks for a man, or four or more drinks for a woman (Centre for Addiction & Mental Health, 2012). Responsible drinking involves having a plan and sticking to it, including:

  • Counting and measuring your drinks to avoid over-consumption.
  • Alternating alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Drinking lots of water to stay hydrated.
  • Using the three S’s to avoid excessive drinking – space drinks, sip drinks and socialize. 

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