New Delhi: The tragic death of 19-year-old Indian origin Gursimran Kaur, whose body was found inside a walk-in oven at a Walmart in Canada on 19 October, has led to widespread safety concerns, with many former Walmart employees questioning how such an incident could have occurred. Gursimran’s remains were discovered by her mother, a fellow employee, following a search after she was reported missing, with workers first noticing signs from the oven due to an unusual leakage.
On social media, former Walmart employees, including one who demonstrated the oven’s inner mechanics, expressed disbelief at the possibility of accidental entrapment. They pointed out that the oven design typically includes emergency release mechanisms that can be activated with a simple push, making it difficult for anyone to become trapped without external interference. The oven’s heavy doors and the specific effort needed to latch them shut further raised questions, as these industrial ovens are usually secured from the outside and rarely require employees to enter.
Ex-employees express disbelief
The video, now viral, featured one former employee explaining how safe the ovens are, highlighting that an individual could easily exit using the emergency release button. Many Walmart employees echoed this sentiment, pointing out that it would be challenging for the oven door to close automatically or lock from the inside. These insights have stirred considerable response, drawing attention to the incident and its disturbing implications.
Currently, the police are conducting an investigation to clarify how Kaur could have become trapped in the oven, though no official conclusions have been released.
Walmart’s statement: “We are heartbroken and our deepest thoughts are with our associate and their family. We extend our sincerest condolences to those who were closest to them. We’re also supporting our associates during this incredibly difficult time and have provided access to 24/7 virtual care and will provide on-site support, including grief counselling.”
