Oland dies suddenly in Saint John

A member of a prominent beer-making family has died under mysterious circumstances.

The body of 69-year-old Richard Oland was found in his downtown office at 52 Canterbury Street in Saint John Thursday morning.

Police aren't saying how he died, but they have deemed it "suspicious."

Officers spent the day combing the scene.

Tracking dogs were brought in, and Oland's car was removed.

Oland left the company which bears the family name in the 1980s. His brother, Derek Oland, remains in the business.

Away from the brewery, Richard Oland was well-known for chairing the committee that brought the Canada Games to Saint John in 1985. He also made a name for himself as a sailor, taking part in yacht races around the world.

He was also former vice-president of Saint John Shipbuilding and Dry Dock.

Speaking to CTV News in Saint John Thursday night, longtime friend Sandy Robertson expressed sadness.

"He was a nice guy, a great fundraiser and did a lot for the community" Robertson said.

An autopsy will be performed Friday.

• 

  Prominent Maritime businessman Richard Old was found dead in his Saint John office thursday morning.

• 

  Saint John Police spent of the day on the scene at Oland's office on Canterbury Street.