The Bureau du coroner du Québec is opening an investigation into a 26-year-old Quebecer who tragically died in Morocco this month after undergoing surgery.

“An investigation is underway on this Quebecer who died abroad. We don't have any more details at this time," confirms Jake Lamotta Granato, spokesperson for the Coroner's Office, to the Journal.

He specifies that it is Dr. Jacques Ramsay who will lead the investigation into Florence McConnell, a resident of Saint-Lambert who died this month in nebulous circumstances in Morocco.

Mr. Granato also indicates that the body of the young woman was finally repatriated to Quebec this week.

"The family will make no comment following this tragic event," wrote in an email to the Journal Catherine Melillo, president of an advertising and marketing agency that represents relatives of the deceased.

Medical complication

In a message posted on Facebook, Florence McConnell's father nevertheless reveals that his daughter died of a "rare medical complication" following surgery in Morocco.

“It's definitely a tragedy. There is no other word that can describe this situation. The pain of this appalling news was overwhelming and cannot be appeased,” says Brian D. McConnell.

"[I] saw you leave for Morocco just 10 days ago, knowing you were happy and fulfilled, when absolutely everything in your life was on top!", he adds.

Rain of tributes

Tributes on social networks multiplied this week after the announcement of the death of the 26-year-old Quebecer.

“To my loving big sister, my protector, my other half, my superstar. You left so quickly, but I'm so proud of you and of everything you've accomplished by always giving your 1000%!" said Viviane McConnell, Florence's little sister.

Several of her friends have also shared photos of good times with the Quebecer, while recalling her passion for travel, her successful studies in criminology, her remarkable professional ambitions and her talents as a “cheerleading coach”.

“A shooting star, our star. May she forever shine among us,” reads her obituary.