Commonwealth _ Five individuals, including three children, were tragically discovered deceased on Sunday morning in southern Manitoba, in incidents that RCMP have linked together. The authorities have taken a 29-year-old man into custody, though no charges have been filed as of yet. Insp.
Tim Arseneault of RCMP major crime services addressed the media at a news conference held at Winnipeg RCMP headquarters, expressing profound condolences to the affected families and the broader community. The incidents occurred at three different locations: along Highway 3 between Carman and Winkler, on Highway 248 north of provincial road 424, and at a residence in Carman, Man., approximately 75 km southwest of Winnipeg. The sequence of events began when Carman RCMP responded to a report of a hit-and-run on Highway 3 at 7:30 a.m., leading to the discovery of a woman’s body in a nearby ditch.
At 10 a.m., Headingley RCMP were alerted to a vehicle ablaze on Highway 248. A witness had already extracted three children from the burning vehicle, but tragically, they were declared deceased upon the arrival of RCMP. The suspect was apprehended at this location without incident. Subsequent investigation led officers to a residence in Carman, where another woman’s body was found. Multiple units within the RCMP, including major crimes services, forensic identification services, and collision reconstructionist units, are actively investigating these devastating events. Due to police activity, Highway 248, spanning from the junction with Road 65N to Main Street in St. Eustache, has been closed in both directions.
Residents like Trent Lepine of St. Eustache have been deeply affected by the unfolding tragedy. Lepine recounted driving past what appeared to be a broken-down vehicle earlier in the morning, only to witness a roadblock and emergency vehicles upon his return. The sudden and profound loss has left the community reeling, with individuals grappling to comprehend such a tragedy occurring in their midst. While the suspect’s identity has not been disclosed, Arseneault emphasized that the authorities believe the suspect and victims were acquainted. The victims, all believed to be from the Carman area, have not been named officially by the police. Carman Mayor Brent Owen expressed shock and disbelief, echoing the sentiments of many in the community.
Premier Wab Kinew and Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham extended their heartfelt condolences and unwavering support to the families affected by the devastating events in Carman. Kinew took to social media to express his sympathy, recognizing the profound loss suffered by the community and offering words of comfort to those who are grieving. His message conveyed a sense of solidarity and compassion during this difficult time. Similarly, Mayor Scott Gillingham, with personal connections to Carman, shared his deep condolences and solidarity with those impacted by the tragedy. Reflecting on his ties to the community, Gillingham emphasized the importance of coming together in support of one another amidst such profound sorrow.
Inspector Tim Arseneault sought to reassure the public, affirming that the individual in custody is the sole suspect in the tragic incidents. He underscored that there is no lingering threat to public safety, providing a measure of reassurance to the community as they grapple with the aftermath of the tragedy. As the investigation progresses, the community remains united in their mourning, offering support and solidarity to one another in the face of incomprehensible loss. The profound loss of life has sent shockwaves through the region, prompting reflection on the fragility of life and the importance of community support in times of crisis. As the investigation progresses, authorities and community members alike are committed to seeking justice for the victims and providing solace to their grieving loved ones.
