Iqaluit man charged with manslaughter in December death

Chief Supt. Steve McVarnock said Jan. 31 that manslaughter charges have been laid against Alec Petooloosie in connection with the death of Matthew Petooloosie on Dec. 12, 2011. (PHOTO BY DEAN MORRISON)

An Iqaluit man has been charged in connection with a homicide investigation that started Dec.12, Chief Supt. Steve McVarnock said during a press conference at Iqaluit’s RCMP detachment Jan. 31.

Alec Petooloosie, 22, has been charged with manslaughter in the death of 36-year-old Matthew Petooloosie of Iqaluit.

Alec Petooloosie, who police say is the victim’s nephew, made his first court appearance Jan.31.

Police and first responders discovered the body of Matthew Petooloosie Dec. 12 after they were called to a house in the 300s area of the city just after 3:00 a.m.

Officers from Nunavut, Quebec, Ontario and Alberta were involved in the investigation.

“I would like to acknowledge the work of our investigators. A lot of effort has gone into the investigation, especially through the holiday season,” McVarnock said.

There were nine homicides reported in Nunavut for 2011, which is a significant number for a small territory, McVarnock said.

There are 16 homicide cases currently before the Nunavut Court of Justice.