Family members sue Alberta government and company over 15-year-old’s death in group home

The tragic death of 15-year-old Noah Gitsel by suicide in an Edmonton group home has sparked a legal battle as three family members are now suing the Alberta government and the company that operates the facility. They allege that both parties failed to take necessary precautions to prevent the teenager’s death, despite his history of suicidal ideation.

According to medical records obtained by Gitsel’s mother, Chassie Falardeau, the teenager had visited several emergency departments in the months leading up to his death. While at the Stollery Children’s Hospital’s emergency department following a suicide attempt, Gitsel expressed ongoing suicidal ideation and a desire for constant monitoring. A psychologist had recommended that Gitsel be placed on a psychiatric ward for a comprehensive assessment, but this recommendation was not followed.

Falardeau had communicated her concerns about Gitsel’s mental health and risk of suicide to the defendants multiple times, but they allegedly failed to heed the warnings. The family members are seeking a judgment of $1 million, plus damages, costs, and interest. The province denies that proper safeguards were not put in place and claims that the group home operator was in control of Gitsel’s care and custody.

The psychologist who assessed Gitsel in April noted a history of abuse, depression, habitual cutting, and multiple suicide attempts. The psychologist also mentioned that Gitsel was considering a gender transition, although Falardeau disputes this claim. Despite this, she would have supported a transition if his mental health issues had been addressed.

In 2023, Gitsel had moved to Saskatchewan to live with other family members, but a placement for a live-in program at the Royal Alexandra Hospital was lost due to his refusal to return to Edmonton. Falardeau pleaded with Alberta Children and Family Services for help, and the province assumed custody of the youth for six months. Gitsel moved into the group home in February.

The province’s statement of defense reveals that Gitsel was on a waiting list for a mental health clinic and a live-in program for teens with significant mental health challenges. However, he tragically died the day before his psychiatry appointment.

The family’s lawyer, Avnish Nanda, stresses that this lawsuit aims to uncover what happened to Noah and to force systemic changes to protect vulnerable youth. The Alberta government continues to strengthen youth suicide prevention initiatives, but concerns remain regarding the high number of youth suicides in the province.

Chassie Falardeau hopes that pursuing this lawsuit will bring answers and closure to her family. The loss of her son has left a permanent void in their lives, and she continues to seek justice for Noah. The legal battle highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues and implementing necessary safeguards to protect at-risk youth in group homes and other care facilities.