News release
Charges laid in connection to residential fire in Whale Cove
October 2, 2025
-
Whale Cove, Nunavut
From: Nunavut RCMP
On this page
Content
File: 2025-1447533
On September 29, 2025, the Whale Cove RCMP responded to a residential fire in the 200 block. One person was removed from the residence and was later pronounced deceased.
The fire was suspicious in nature and the Nunavut RCMP’s Major Crime Unit (MCU) began investigating the incident with the assistance from the Nunavut Fire Marshal’s office and the Nunavut Coroner’s office. Investigators determined that the fire was deliberately set.
As a result of the investigation, police have arrested one individual in connection with the arson. The Nunavut RCMP’s Major Crime Unit has charged, Roberta Etigaitok (age 36) with the death of Jonathan Ekwalak (age 37).
Roberta Etigaitok was charged with:
- Second degree Murder, contrary to Section 235(1) C.C
- Arson with disregard for human life, contrary to Section 433(a) C.C
Etigaitok was remanded into custody, and her next court appearance is scheduled for October 21, 2025, in Iqaluit, Nunavut.
The RCMP would like to thank everyone who assisted in the investigation and to members of the Whale Cove volunteer fire department for their quick actions. Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased.