– The family of April Woodhouse, a 50-year-old First Nations woman found frozen outside a home in Pinaymootang First Nation on January 31, 2025, is demanding answers after her death was initially ruled a medical incident. Woodhouse’s sister, Rose Stagg, believes there is more to the story, citing signs of physical trauma and internal bleeding observed at the hospital.
Woodhouse was discovered lying on the steps of a house near her home, approximately 240 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg. She was rushed to Ashern Hospital with a faint heartbeat but died hours later. While RCMP initially stated that her death was not criminal in nature, they have since launched an investigation following concerns raised by the family and the community.
“My sister would never just fall asleep outside,” Stagg told CTV News. “She was beaten and left for dead.” Stagg noted visible injuries on her sister’s body, including badly beaten hands, which she says are inconsistent with death by exposure.
Manitoba RCMP confirmed that Gypsumville RCMP, along with Major Crime Services, are now investigating the death. An autopsy has been scheduled for early next week to determine the cause of death and whether criminality was involved.
“It’s someone we love,” Stagg said. “She was loved by so many people. She would never harm anyone; that was not her nature.”
Woodhouse, a mother of four and grandmother of eight, was known for her love of singing and recording gospel music. Her family is awaiting autopsy results before planning her funeral.
The community is urged to come forward with any information that may assist in the investigation.
Courtesy CTV News.