A female inmate found dead at a Lower Mainland facility is from Vernon.
Ridge Meadows RCMP were called Friday to a report of an unresponsive woman inmate at the Alouette Correctional Centre for Women in Maple Ridge.
The woman was identified as April Angela Peregooda, 51, who had been residing in Vernon prior to her incarceration.
“Upon attendance the RCMP suspected foul play and the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) was called in and currently have conduct,” said RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Jennifer Pound in a press release issued Monday.
Peregooda’s death has been ruled a homicide.
“This investigation is in the initial stages and IHIT is looking to obtain information about the motive and circumstances leading up to the homicide by speaking with other inmates,” said Pound. “One female has been arrested in connection to this homicide, however, there have been no charges laid thus far.”
Peregooda’s family has been advised of the death.
An autopsy is scheduled to assist police in confirming the cause of death.
Court records show Peregooda was in custody after being charged with uttering threats, assault with a weapon, possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose and discharging a firearm with intent to wound in connection with an incident in Vernon Sept. 28.
She had been slated to make a court appearance by video today.
