Families of women murdered by serial killer speak after possible human remains found in landfill

The families of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran are set to speak at a news conference on Thursday morning following the potential discovery of human remains at a landfill north of Winnipeg. The news release from the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs stated that the family members will share their thoughts on this significant development and their ongoing pursuit of justice.

Both Harris and Myran, who hail from Long Plain First Nation, were among the four women murdered by serial killer Jeremy Skibicki in 2022. Technicians have been meticulously sifting through material at the Prairie Green landfill since December in hopes of finding the remains of these two victims.

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew revealed that the activity at the landfill search site was temporarily halted after the discovery on Wednesday but is set to resume on Thursday. He emphasized the importance of patience as the process of identifying the remains and determining their origins could take up to two weeks.

In addition to Harris and Myran, Skibicki was also found guilty in the deaths of Rebecca Contois and another unidentified woman dubbed Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe, or Buffalo Woman. Contois’s partial remains were discovered in a garbage bin in Winnipeg in mid-May 2022, with more remains found at the Brady Road landfill in June of the same year.

The discovery of possible human remains has reignited the determination of the searchers and technicians, many of whom are aspiring forensic anthropologists. Kinew expressed hope that this development will initiate a healing process for the families who have endured immense pain and loss.

The premier acknowledged the tumultuous nature of the search for the victims, which led to protests and blockades around the city. He emphasized the need for unity and healing, especially in light of the public scrutiny and division surrounding the case.

As the identification process unfolds in the coming weeks, Kinew urged Manitobans to reflect on the values of their province and the importance of community solidarity in times of tragedy. Regardless of the outcome, he emphasized the unwavering commitment of Manitobans to search for those who have gone missing, even in the face of adversity.

The news conference, which will be live-streamed by CBC, is expected to provide further clarity and answers as the investigation progresses. The hope is that this development will bring closure to the families of the victims and pave the way for healing and unity in the province of Manitoba.