Killings of 2 men, 2 women on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation may have been targeted: Sask. RCMP

Saskatchewan RCMP have confirmed that the deaths of two men and two women on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation are being treated as homicides and are believed to have been targeted. The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, prompting a response from officers who discovered the bodies in a home on the reserve, located approximately 80 kilometres east of Regina.

Insp. Ashley St. Germaine, a senior investigative officer with the major crimes unit, provided an update during a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. While the victims have yet to be formally identified by the Saskatchewan Coroners Service, it has been confirmed that they were two men and two women. St. Germaine assured the public that there is currently no heightened risk to the community and explained that the decision not to issue a dangerous persons alert on Tuesday was made based on the belief that the killings were targeted.

The RCMP is actively working to identify any potential suspects involved in the homicides. St. Germaine emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages and is complex in nature. When asked about the rarity of such a crime, she acknowledged that while it may not occur frequently, the impact is significant on all affected parties including communities, families, the province, and law enforcement.

Residents of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation can expect continued police presence on the reserve as the investigation progresses. In a separate incident on Tuesday, reports surfaced of a man pointing a gun at individuals on the nearby Zagime Anishinabek reserve. Following hours of investigation, 29-year-old Keagan Panipekeesick was apprehended by the Regina Police Service. The potential connection between the firearm incident and the homicides is currently being explored by authorities.

Panipekeesick has been charged with one count of pointing a gun and one count of possession of a gun contrary to an order. He was scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday alongside two other individuals who were present at the time of his arrest. The investigation into their involvement with the firearm incident is ongoing, with updates to be provided to the public if any imminent risk to safety is identified.

Chief Scott Eashappie of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation addressed the community via social media, informing members that the reserve remains on lockdown with heightened police presence for added security. Local police are collaborating with RCMP and city law enforcement to locate any suspects involved in the homicides. Support services are available for residents, including access to the nation hall for gatherings and the youth center for childcare.

Neighboring communities, such as Zagime Anishinabek, have expressed their condolences and support for Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation during this difficult time. Chief Payepot School, located on the Piapot First Nation, implemented safety measures in response to the nearby incidents, ensuring the protection of students and staff.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are committed to providing updates and support to all those affected by the tragic events on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation.