The province’s police watchdog is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a person in distress on Monday, the Cornwall Police Service says. The Cornwall Police Service says officers and emergency partners responded to the area of Belmont Street and Montreal Road in Cornwall shortly before 8 a.m. regarding an individual in distress. “Despite the efforts of emergency responders, the individual was pronounced deceased at the scene,” Cornwall police said in a statement in the afternoon. Cornwall police say the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has been called in and is investigating. The SIU is the independent agency that investigates the conduct of police officers that may have resulted in a death, serious injury, sexual assault and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. “We recognize the impact an incident like this can have on our community, and we ask that everyone respect the privacy of those affected,” said Cornwall police Dep. Chief Chad Maxwell. No further details were provided. Police have also asked the public to refrain from sharing or posting photos or videos from the scene. Residents are being asked to avoid the area. If you or a person you know is in distress and in need of assistance, there are resources that can help. The national Suicide Crisis Helpline is available 24/7: Call 988. The Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region: Call 613-238-3311.
