Tragic death at Gatineau homeless encampment near Robert-Guertin Centre

Tashi Farmilo

On the afternoon of November 16, a distressing event unfolded at a homeless encampment near the Robert-Guertin Centre in Gatineau. Marc Jodoin, a construction worker who often slept in his car near the camp, was found unresponsive inside a tent. Gatineau Police responded to a call shortly after 3:30 pm. Tragically, Jodoin was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital.

The encampment, located close to Gîte Ami and commonly referred to as the "tent city," became the focus of a police investigation. Officers secured the area with police tape, and a patrol car was stationed at the scene into the evening, signifying the severity of the incident.

This case has been designated as a Coroner's investigation to ascertain the causes and circumstances surrounding Jodoin's death. Due to the ongoing nature of this inquiry, the Gatineau Police have stated that no additional information can be released at this time.

The Gatineau Police Service has expressed its commitment to providing updates as they become available and is actively responding to further inquiries, promising to communicate any new information as it emerges.

This incident has shone a spotlight on the challenges faced by the homeless community in Gatineau, highlighting the daily struggles and harsh realities many individuals endure. As the investigation continues, the community awaits further details, hoping for answers concerning this tragic event.

Photo caption: “Tent City” - Gatineau’s homeless encampment and site of recent emergency response and death.

Photo credit: Amar Marouf