REGINA - The Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service, in conjunction with the Saskatchewan RCMP are releasing the names of the people who died as a result of the homicides on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation on Feb. 4 to help further the investigation.
This is being done in collaboration with the families of the deceased victims, say RCMP in a release issued Tuesday morning.
“We share our condolences with the families and community members impacted by this tragedy.”
The deceased victims are identified as:
34-year-old Tracey Hotomani of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation
44-year-old Sheldon Quewezance of Zagime Anishinabek
47-year-old Shauna Fay of Indian Head
51-year-old Terry Jack of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation
The Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes Family Liaison team and Victim Services continue to communicate with the victim’s families.
Investigation has determined the homicide victims were injured by firearm, say RCMP.
The investigation continues, which includes investigators speaking with individuals who may have relevant information to share, as well as evidence analysis. Neighbourhood canvasses have also occurred on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation.
No arrests have been made in relation to the deaths of the four victims.
“We are actively investigating this tragedy to piece together the details of what happened - this takes time. We must be mindful that releasing more specific details could impact the overall investigation,” says Inspector Ashley St. Germaine, Senior Investigative Officer of Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes. “I reiterate: if you have information to share about this investigation, please speak directly with the police so it can be examined thoroughly. Rumours can spread quickly. Please remember the loss the victim’s loved ones have experienced. Misinformation can impact an investigation by rerouting investigators in false directions. Investigations must follow evidence and our investigators are trained to do just that.”
RCMP also confirmed Tuesday investigators are still looking into whether a firearm pointing incident at Zagime Anishinabek on Feb. 4 around 3:15 p.m. is connected to the homicides. Keagan Panipekeesick was arrested by Regina Police Service in Regina after a police operation on on Mathieu Crescent.
Panipekeesick made a brief court appearance Tuesday in Regina on the firearms charges. He is to make another appearance Wednesday in Broadview.
Obituaries for Jack and Quewezance say funerals for the men set for Tuesday — Jack's on Carry the Kettle and Quewezance's on Zagime.
An obituary for Fay says a celebration of life is to be held for her Saturday in Indian Head.
Jack's obituary says he leaves behind a son, grandchildren and a special companion.
It says Jack often went by the nickname "Fats" and loved having friends over to play dice and cards. He also enjoyed hunting, was known for his teasing and gave nicknames to those around him.
Quewezance's obituary says he leaves behind children, parents and siblings, and that family was everything to him. He was also a "prankster, spinner of tales and keeper of memories," it adds.
Fay's obituary says she leaves behind a son, parents and siblings, adding she was always on the move and loved playing guitar while singing with friends and family.
- With files from The Canadian Press
