The BC Coroners Service has investigated the cause of death of 18-month-old Saam Zohrevand (also known as Saam Darya) who was found deceased in a Victoria hotel room at about 4 a.m. on July 18, 2015.

Island Regional Coroner Matt Brown stated that preliminary autopsy findings indicate that Saam died of natural causes.

Microbiology findings showed that Saam had developed both a lung infection and a type of bacterial meningitis. These illnesses became severe over a short period of time.

Information from the pathologist shows that given the circumstances, no public health concerns arise for those who might have come into contact with Saam or his family.

The BC Coroners Service and Victoria City Police continue to investigate this death. The Independent Investigations Office is conducting a preliminary investigation to determine if there is a nexus to the actions or decision of a police officer.

Saam’s family has been made aware of his death. On behalf of family members, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.