An investigation at a Gillette, Wyoming, assisted living center is underway after an 88-year-old female patient from the memory care wing was found dead in an outside courtyard at the facility.
Three employees connected to the incident remain suspended, according to a statement from Bree Richardson, a spokesperson for Campbell County Health.
The unnamed patient was discovered by a staff member at the Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center unresponsive sometime before 4:10 a.m. on Jan. 10, said Richardson.
The Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center offers both long- and short-term rehabilitation and care under the umbrella of the Campbell County Health Care System.
The cause of death has not yet been determined, according to the statement.
Campbell County Coroner Paul Wallem confirmed that his office is working with the Gillette Police Department on the investigation but declined to comment pending his autopsy review.
The National Weather Service for Gillette reports the temperatures Jan. 10 were between 10 and 35 degrees with 2 inches of snow having fallen the day prior.
Richardson further stated that the patient’s family had been notified and that the facility had launched its own internal investigation into the circumstances leading up to the event and has added additional personnel and security during this review.
“As part of the process, we continue to interview staff and thoroughly review the facility’s protocols and procedures,” Richardson said.
Jennifer Toscana, director of public affairs for the city of Gillette, confirmed the police department is actively investigating the death of the resident.
“We are committed to transparency and will share the results of the investigation once they are available,” Richardson said.
Contact Jen Kocher at jen@cowboystatedaily.com
Jen Kocher can be reached at jen@cowboystatedaily.com.
