Saskatchewan RCMP are investigating a quadruple homicide on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation and say they have arrested a suspect.
RCMP say around 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday they responded to a report of sudden deaths in the community about 85 kilometres east of Regina.
When police arrived, RCMP said they found four people dead in a residence.
“This is an unfolding investigation and we are unable to provide further details about the deceased persons at this time,” the RCMP said in a release. “We’ll do so once we are able to, and we’ve confirmed that next of kin notifications are complete.”
The File Hills First Nations Police conducted the initial investigation at Carry the Kettle which it says determined the deaths are suspicious, but they didn’t provide details about a possible suspect.
Four hours later, RCMP said they received reports about a man pointing a gun at people on Zagime Anishinabek, formerly known as the Sakimay First Nation, roughly 95 kilometres away.
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They identified that suspect as Keagan Panipekeesick, 29.
In an update early Wednesday morning, the Saskatchewan RCMP said Panipekeesick was arrested by Regina Police in Regina. The RCMP said further details will be provided later.
Keagan Panipekeesick, 29.
Courtesy of Saskatchewan RCMP
RCMP say it’s not confirmed if the gun pointing at Zagime is connected to the deaths at Carry the Kettle, but people in the area were asked not to approach suspicious characters or pick up hitchhikers.
“Saskatchewan RCMP is carefully monitoring this situation, which has included continual assessment as to whether a dangerous person alert is required,” the RCMP said in a statement.
“At this time, we continue to ask the public to remain vigilant.”
RCMP said there will be a continued increased police presence on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation.
Chief Scott Eashappie of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation took to Facebook on Tuesday to notify the community a homicide had taken place.
“We have had a break and enter in one of our homes last night,” a social media post reads. “We ask everyone to please stay clear as there has been a homicide on north side of reserve.”
Cowessess First Nation chief Erica Beaudin also took to social media sending her condolences.
“While we will stand and wait to assist in any way that our kin and neighbours need us, we will continue to uphold the families and Nation in our prayers… The next few days and months will be difficult but as First Nations, we reach out to those in need, so they know they don’t walk alone.”
— With files from The Canadian Press
