Sask. RCMP continues investigation of 4 homicides on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation

Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation. (Gareth Dillistone/CTV News)

An ongoing investigation regarding the four homicides on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation has determined the offence was not a random act of violence, but rather a targeted approach, according to Saskatchewan RCMP.

On Tuesday, Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes arrested two suspects in relation to the offence – 18-year-old Darrius Racette and a 15-year-old boy, who cannot be identified as per the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

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Racette was located by police in Yorkton and appeared at Yorkton Provincial court later that afternoon. He made his second court appearance on February 20.

The young offender was also arrested on Carry the Kettle and appeared in Regina Provincial Court that same day.

Both have been charged with four counts of first-degree murder.

“Once we get to the point of laying charges, that’s not where our investigation stops,” stated Ashley St. Germaine, senior investigative officer with Saskatchewan RCMP’s Major Crimes.

“We carry on with further investigation, at any point in time we could come across information or be told information that could lead us in a different direction. That could lead to additional arrests, it could lead to additional charges being laid in consultation with our crown.”

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RCMP have identified the victims as 34-year-old Tracey Hotomani and 51-year-old Terry Jack from Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation, as well as 44-year-old Sheldon Quewezance from Zagime Anishinabek, 47-year-old Shauna Fay from Indian Head.

Police told the media they cannot “comment on the relationship between the accused and the victims,” as the investigation is still unfolding.

St. Germaine also stated that the RCMP have not determined if the four victims knew each other.

“The extent of that relationship is subject to that investigation,” she said.

“They were in the same residence, presumably they do have a relationship of some nature with one another, but the actual extent to how well they know each other and all that stuff is very much subject to that investigation at this point.”

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As numerous families continue to mourn, the nation’s chief said the community appreciates that the suspects have been identified.

“I want to thank RCMP investigation team and the major crimes unit for working steady around the clock to bring in all evidence. All the home visits and calls have helped lead up to charges,” Chief Scott Eashappie stated on social media.

“Our nation has suffered in the last 16 days not knowing if anyone would be caught for these horrible actions. I know each day that went by it felt more hopeless, frustrating, and fearful for the families. We will continue to pray for each other and look after one another in the days ahead.”

• Sask. RCMP releases identities of homicide victims on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation

Currently, mental health services are available on the reserve, including one-on-one counselling, trauma and grief support, crisis intervention, as well as safe and confidential spaces for people to talk.

People can contact CTK Prevention Services at [phone] or Stephanie Morin at [phone].

Racette is scheduled to appear in Regina Provincial Court on March 4, and the young offender will be back in court the following day.