A day after a suspicious death investigation began into the death of a woman north-east of Spruce Grove, investigators have called the death a homicide – and released the victim's identity.
Spruce Grove and Stony Plain RCMP were called to a rural home early Thursday morning, and paramedics pronounced the woman dead on the scene.
Now, RCMP have entered into a homicide investigation for the death of 36-year-old Jolene Cote from Spruce Grove.
CTV News has learned Cote was a teacher at Grey Stone Centennial Middle School in Spruce Grove.
The Deputy Superintendant of the Parkland School Division spoke to CTV News about the loss.
"[It's] very very shocking," Deputy Superintendant Kelly Wilkins said in an interview over the phone. "[It's] just tragic, and really quite unbelievable."
An assembly was held Friday morning, to inform students of Cote's death – a critical incidence response team was also there to help students deal with the shocking news.
Messages have been posted on Facebook since news of the death of the mother of two spread, messages of condolence coming from students, neighbours and relatives.
Police said they are investigating several factors in the case, and the cause of death is not being released.
RCMP have asked anyone with information about the homicide to call Spruce Grove RCMP at 780-962-2222 or Stony Plain RCMP at 780-968-7267.
With files from Susan Amerongen
