Saskatchewan RCMP is investigating the suspicious deaths of four individuals at a residence on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation, located approximately 80 kilometres east of Regina, reported CBS News.
Officers responded to a report of sudden deaths at around 11:15 am CST on Tuesday.
Upon arrival, they discovered four deceased persons inside the home. The RCMP stated that the investigation is ongoing and provided no further details about the victims, noting they would release more information after confirming next of kin notifications.
This case is being treated as a homicide, and the RCMP major crimes unit is leading the investigation. There has been an increased police presence on the reserve, and the RCMP emphasized the need for public vigilance in the area.
As per Global News, chief Scott Eashappie of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation confirmed the tragedy in a Facebook post, urging the community to stay clear of the site. He also called for any information to be reported to local police.
Around 3:15 pm CST on the same day, RCMP received multiple reports of a man pointing a gun at individuals on nearby Zagime Anishinabek, formerly known as Sakimay First Nation, about 130 kilometers away.
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Keagan Panipekeesick, is being sought by authorities. While it is unconfirmed whether this incident is connected to the deaths on Carry the Kettle, RCMP has advised the public not to approach him and remain cautious.
According to CBC News, the ongoing investigation and community reactions, with leaders from neighbouring First Nations, such as Cowessess First Nation Chief Erica Beaudin, sending condolences to Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation.
Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation is a First Nations group in Canada. They are located in the province of Saskatchewan. The Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation is part of the broader Nakoda (Assiniboine) people, and their reserve is situated near the border of Saskatchewan and the US state of Montana.
The nation is a signatory to Treaty 4, which was an agreement between the Canadian government and various First Nations groups to share the land in exchange for rights, resources and services.