HALIFAX -- The RCMP in Halifax are investigating an alleged assault at a long-term-care home that has left a resident with life-threatening injuries.
Cpl. Scott MacRae says there was a scuffle last Sunday between two residents at the Quest Regional Rehabilitation Centre in Lower Sackville, which houses adults with intellectual disabilities.
MacRae says a 28-year-old resident allegedly pushed a 56-year-old resident, who was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
He says the incident was not reported to police until Thursday and the RCMP's major crimes unit is investigating.
Elizabeth MacDonald, a spokeswoman for the provincial Community Services Department, issued a statement saying privacy law prohibits government officials from speaking about specific clients.
But she confirms that the department has assigned an investigator to the case.
"We understand that any situation like this is upsetting for residents, their families and staff," the statement says. "We take any allegation of abuse involving people in our care very seriously and this matter has our full attention."
The non-profit Quest Society, which operates the facility, issued a brief statement saying client confidentiality prevents the group from commenting on a case that is subject to an ongoing investigation.
"Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the client at this difficult time," the statement said. "Quest is co-operating fully with the Department of Community Services (and) Halifax police."
