The BC Coroners Service confirms it is investigating the death of 42-year-old Lucia Vega Jimenez, a Mexican national who died Dec. 28, 2013, at Mount St Joseph Hospital in Vancouver.

Ms. Vega Jimenez had been taken to hospital the morning of Dec. 20, 2013, after she was discovered hanging in a shower stall at the Immigration Holding Centre at Vancouver International Airport. She did not regain consciousness and was removed from life support with family present on Dec. 28, 2013.

Chief coroner Lisa Lapointe confirms that the death of Ms. Vega Jimenez was appropriately reported to the BC Coroners Service by hospital personnel and an investigation into the circumstances of her death was immediately commenced.

"BC Coroners Service investigations are independent, impartial and comprehensive. As with all investigations undertaken by the Coroners Service, detailed findings are not reported until the circumstances of the death have been thoroughly and carefully reviewed and the facts determined," Lapointe stated.

"While we cannot prevent speculation about the events surrounding the death of Ms. Vega Jimenez, the Coroners Service will continue to carefully gather the facts using the broad authorities available to us," Lapointe said. "I can confirm that all of those contacted for information about the circumstances of the death, including federal and provincial agencies, are fully co-operating with Coroners Service investigators."

The decision as to whether to conclude the investigation by public coroner's report or coroner's inquest will be made once investigators have reviewed the facts, circumstances and issues surrounding the death.

Media Contact:

Barb McLintock
Coroner, Strategic Programs
BC Coroners Service
250 356-9253 or 250 213-5020