Tragic Discovery During Saskatoon's Deep Freeze
Saskatoon police are investigating after a woman was found deceased outside a business early Friday morning, as the city grappled with dangerously frigid temperatures reaching -39C. The discovery occurred in the 2100 block of Airport Drive, an area containing multiple business complexes near local hotels including the Saskatoon Inn and Heritage Inn.
Police Response and Investigation Details
Officers responded to the scene around 7 a.m. on Friday after receiving reports from individuals who had discovered the woman outside the business. First responders pronounced her dead at the location. While police have not released the woman's age or identity, they confirmed that family members have been notified of the tragic incident.
According to a news release issued Monday, the Saskatchewan Coroners Service has taken over the investigation to determine the exact cause of death. Police have indicated that the death "is believed to be non-suspicious in nature," though the coroner's investigation continues.
Extreme Weather Conditions
The discovery occurred during one of Saskatoon's coldest periods this winter. Environment Canada reported that at 5 a.m. on Friday—approximately two hours before police were called—the temperature in Saskatoon reached -38.7C with a wind chill making it feel like -51C. The city has been experiencing a prolonged deep freeze with overnight lows plummeting to dangerous levels.
Community Warming Resources
During such extreme cold events, Saskatoon operates several warming centres to provide refuge for vulnerable residents. These facilities offer critical protection against life-threatening temperatures:
Overnight Warming Locations:
- Sawēyihtotān youth drop-in: 1420 20th Street West (24 hours daily for those under 25)
- Sawēyihtotān women's warm-up: 325 Avenue C South (24 hours daily for women 18+)
- St. Mary's: 211 Avenue O South (9 p.m.-8 a.m. for men 18+)
Daytime Warming Locations:
- Canadian Mental Health Association (1301 Avenue P North)
- EGADZ (485 First Avenue North)
- Station 20 West (1120 20th Street West)
- Persons Living with AIDS Network of Saskatchewan (127C Avenue D North)
- Saskatoon Friendship Inn (619 20th Street West)
- Prairie Harm Reduction (1516 20th Street West)
- The Bridge on 20th Fellowship Centre (1008 20th Street West)
The incident highlights the severe risks posed by extreme winter weather in Canadian cities, particularly for those without adequate shelter or protection. As the investigation continues, community organizations emphasize the importance of utilizing available warming resources during dangerous cold snaps.
