Saskatchewan RCMP are investigating the deaths of four individuals—two men and two women—on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation, which are being treated as homicides and may have been targeted killings. On Tuesday, officers responded to a report of deaths at a residence on the reserve, located approximately 80 kilometers east of Regina. When they arrived, they discovered all four victims deceased.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Insp. Ashley St. Germaine, a senior officer with the RCMP’s Major Crimes Unit, confirmed that the victims’ identities were still being verified in cooperation with the Saskatchewan Coroners Service. While the investigation is still in its early stages, St. Germaine assured the public that there was no immediate threat to public safety, which led to the decision not to issue a dangerous persons alert. She further explained that investigators believe the killings were targeted, which influenced their assessment that there was no broader risk to the community.
St. Germaine also emphasized the complexity of the case, stating that RCMP were working diligently to identify potential suspects. While the investigation is ongoing, she did not confirm whether the perpetrators were still at large. The officer referred to the crime as a “tragedy,” acknowledging the profound impact on the local community, families, and police officers.
Later in the day, RCMP were alerted to another incident, this time on the nearby Zagime Anishinabek reserve, where a man was reported to have pointed a gun at people. Regina Police Service arrested 29-year-old Keagan Panipekeesick in connection with the firearm incident at a residence in Regina. While RCMP are examining whether this incident is related to the homicides, they have not confirmed any link at this time. Panipekeesick faces charges of pointing a gun and possession of a firearm.
The investigation into the four deaths continues, with increased police presence on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation as officers work to uncover more details. Chief Scott Eashappie addressed the community on Facebook, confirming that local police were collaborating with RCMP and city police to locate the suspects. To ensure the safety of residents, File Hills Police Service has been patrolling the area, and the nation hall and youth center have been opened to offer support.
Messages of condolence have been shared across the region. Chief Lynn Acoose of Zagime Anishinabek extended sympathy to the people of Carry the Kettle, offering emotional support during this difficult time. Other nearby communities, such as Piapot First Nation, have taken extra precautions, with schools like Chief Payepot School going into a “hold and secure” status, although no direct threat to students was identified.
RCMP continue to assure the public that they will provide updates if new information emerges, particularly if a public safety risk arises. For now, the investigation is focused on determining the circumstances surrounding the homicides and whether any connections exist to other incidents in the region.
