A murder investigation is ongoing in Port Hardy, B.C

Major criminal investigators were called to the scene of a suspected murder in the community of Port Hardy on northern Vancouver Island.

In a statement Monday, the Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit said it took over the investigation after an injured person was discovered in the community late Sunday afternoon.

At 4:33 p.m., local RCMP officers were called to assist the victim in the 8800 block of Park Drive. According to police, the victim, who was likely assaulted, was taken to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The Major Crimes Unit is receiving assistance from Forensic Identification Services, the Port Hardy RCMP and the BC Coroners Service in determining the circumstances leading to the death.

“The investigation is in the evidence collection phase and no further details will be released at this time,” BC RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Vanessa Munn said in the statement.

Anyone with information or images related to the incident is asked to contact investigators at 250-380-6211.