2 girls found dead in Sylvan Lake hotel room, deaths not considered criminal: police
The Best Western Plus Chateau Inn in Sylvan Lake, Alta. (Dave Mitchell/CTV News Edmonton)
Police have confirmed that two young girls died at a Sylvan Lake hotel over the weekend.
Mounties say a 12-year-old girl from Sylvan Lake and a 13-year-old girl from Red Deer were found dead in the room at the Best Western Plus Chateau Inn on Sunday, adding that a family member of one of the girls was also present.
CTV News Edmonton has confirmed the girls were friends, and not related.
Police say the deaths are not being considered criminal in nature at this time, and added they have not ruled out the girls died of an overdose.
Red Deer Mayor Ken Johnston issued a statement on Thursday on behalf of city council.
"A horrific tragedy occurred in Sylvan Lake this past weekend, leaving our community shocked and grieving for two young lives," he wrote. "On behalf of my Council Colleagues, and the community, I wish to offer my deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones affected by this heartbreak."
The superintendent for Chinook's Edge School Division, which operates Fox Run Middle School in Sylvan Lake, confirmed to CTV News Edmonton that a Fox Run student died on April 9.
“We are deeply sorry for what the families are going through. Staff and administration have reached out to the family. Supports have been set up for when students return from break on Monday,” said Superintendent Kurt Sacher.
Red Deer Public Schools also released a statement.
"Our sincere condolences have been extended to the family at this difficult time, and we are working to support them, our staff and our students. We have encouraged families to utilize Alberta Health Services supports this week. Additional counselling supports will be provided by the Division to students and staff on Monday as they return from Spring Break. Out of respect, we will have no further comment."
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