Homicide investigators have taken charge of a case involving the suspicious death of a resident at Menno Home, a well-known elder care facility in Abbotsford. The decision follows growing concerns after two seniors were sent to the hospital under unclear circumstances.
The case began on July 6 when two residents from Menno Home were rushed to Abbotsford Regional Hospital. One of the individuals died four days later, on July 10. The second resident was treated and survived. Initially, the major crime unit of the Abbotsford Police was in charge, but the investigation has since been passed to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).
Sgt. Paul Walker explained that officers had worked closely with medical experts to understand the situation. “The death of one and hospitalization of another raised concerns,” he said. “We have now handed the case over to IHIT.”
IHIT spokesperson Cpl. Sukhi Dhesi confirmed that detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, collecting medical files, and speaking with staff and other witnesses. “This situation is very serious,” Dhesi said. “Families deserve answers, and our team is working hard to find them.”
So far, no suspects have been named. Police are looking into everyone who was on duty at Menno Home during the time of the incidents. While other deaths have occurred at the facility in recent months, police are only focusing on the two recent cases for now.
Walker said it is not unusual for deaths to occur in homes for the elderly, and the others may not be connected. However, investigators have received court orders to access medical records to rule out any link.
Menno Home quickly increased safety protocols after the July 6 events. Fraser Health, which funds 196 beds at the facility, is also conducting a review. A spokesperson from Fraser Health said they expect high safety standards from private care providers.
Fraser Health inspects Menno Home every year. No problems were found in the most recent two inspections in 2024 and 2025. Some minor issues were noted in earlier years, such as incomplete dental care records and missing weight checks.
Menno Home is part of the larger Menno Place campus, which is located across from Abbotsford Regional Hospital. The site includes two care facilities and houses many elderly residents. The Mennonite Benevolent Society operates the home, and Fraser Health is the main funding source.
In the last fiscal year, Fraser Health provided over $16 million to Menno Home. The group also received close to $14 million for its hospital services and another $1.5 million for housing programs. While it is faith-based, people from all backgrounds live at Menno Home.
The facility has a long history in Abbotsford and has cared for more than 27,000 seniors over the past 70 years. It currently employs 675 staff and has around 250 active volunteers. Several local churches also support the center.
Last week, Menno Place CEO Sujata Connors issued a public message. She said that the safety of residents remains their highest priority. “We acted quickly to add extra safety measures after learning of the situation,” Connors said. “We are fully cooperating with police.”
Mayor Ross Siemens also addressed the matter, expressing sympathy to the families affected. “We trust the police investigation and hope for answers soon,” he said.
Despite the concern, police say there is no ongoing threat to public safety. The grounds of Menno Place remain active, with many seniors seen walking outside and visiting with loved ones.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
