A woman was found dead and three police officers were taken to hospital after a suspected toxic gas incident in Montreal’s Lachine borough on Wednesday morning.
Montreal police (SPVM) were called to an apartment on St-Joseph Boulevard near 6th Avenue at about 10:30 a.m., after a bailiff attending an eviction asked for assistance.
Once inside the unit, one officer lost consciousness and collapsed, while two others experienced dizziness. All three were transported to hospital as a precaution. Authorities say their lives are not in danger.
A woman was found inside the apartment and pronounced dead at the scene.
Montreal fire department (SIM) hazardous materials team carried out air quality tests and detected possible traces of phosphine, a highly toxic, colourless gas. The building was evacuated, forcing about 10 residents from their homes.
Fire official tell CityNews that they believe the person may have taken their own life. The exact circumstances remain under investigation.
Police are awaiting clearance from the fire department before returning to the apartment to continue their investigation
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