Quebec's independent police watchdog has launched an investigation following a death in the northern village of Inukjuak. The Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI) confirmed it was notified and deployed investigators to the scene on December 30, 2025.
Details of the Incident
The BEI, which examines all cases involving police that result in death or serious injury, is now leading the probe. While specific circumstances surrounding the death have not been publicly released, the agency's involvement indicates the incident was connected to police intervention. The remote community of Inukjuak is located on the eastern coast of Hudson Bay in the Nunavik region of Quebec.
The Community and Context
Inukjuak is a primarily Inuit community with a population of approximately 1,800 people. It is accessible only by air for most of the year, with a seasonal sea-lift connection. The BEI has stressed that its mandate is to conduct a neutral, impartial investigation to determine the facts. The agency typically consists of former police officers from outside the force being investigated and civilian investigators.
The investigation began on December 30, 2025, after provincial police notified the watchdog. A team of BEI investigators was dispatched to the village to gather evidence, which may include witness statements, police reports, and forensic analysis. The Sûreté du Québec (SQ), the provincial police force involved, is required to cooperate fully but must not conduct its own parallel investigation into the circumstances of the death.
Next Steps in the Process
Once the BEI completes its investigation, the file will be transferred to the Directeur des poursuites criminelles et pénales (DPCP), Quebec's prosecution service. The DPCP will then review the findings and decide whether any criminal charges should be laid against the officers involved. This process is designed to ensure transparency and public confidence when police actions are under scrutiny.
The BEI has not provided a timeline for the completion of its investigation, noting that probes in remote locations can present logistical challenges. The agency stated it would provide updates as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available. The identity of the deceased has not been released, pending notification of next of kin.
