Nova Scotia police say they suspect foul play in the death of an aboriginal activist who fought for a government settlement worth billions of dollars.
Police in Truro, N.S., said they are investigating the death of Nora Bernard and have classified her home as a crime scene.
Bernard was found dead on the floor of her home in Millbrook First Nation, near Truro, Thursday morning after police responded to a 911 call.
Family members have said they believe Bernard died of a heart attack or stroke.
Sgt. Randy MacKenzie said police have not confirmed the cause of death, but an autopsy is expected to conclude this weekend.
"The family would certainly be aware of that information. But, as I say, as a result of the examination of the scene and the body of Ms. Bernard, foul play has been determined," he said.
The 72-year-old activist spearheaded a class-action lawsuit against the Canadian government on behalf of students of the residential school system, seeking compensation for loss of language and culture.
Bernard's dedication has been credited for reaching the settlement worth up to $5 billion to the more than 70,000 aboriginal school children who suffered physical and sexual abuse from the 1870s to the 1970s.
It is believed to be the largest class-action settlement in Canadian history.
Victims, including Bernard, had recently started receiving settlement cheques worth up to $10,000.
Lloyd Johnson, a band councillor, said Bernard was a welcoming woman who likely left the door unlocked at night. He said her recent payment could have made her a target.
"If it's determined to be because of the money, then we will have to see to it that adequate protection is in place for the other elders," he said.
With a report from CTV Atlantic's Dan MacIntosh
