Man accused in Turnor Lake killing has charge upgraded to murder

The RCMP logo is seen outside the force's 'E' division headquarters in Surrey, B.C., on March 16, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

The man accused in a recent homicide in the community of Turnor Lake is now facing a murder charge, after initially facing one count of manslaughter.

In an update on Monday, RCMP revealed Darian Montgrand, 25, now faces one charge of second-degree murder for his alleged role in the May 8 killing of 21-year-old Shalayah Montgrand.

He is due to appear by video in La Loche Provincial Court on Monday.

Montgrand also faces four firearms related charges, including three counts of possessing a firearm or ammunition contrary to court conditions and unauthorized possession of a firearm.

On May 8, at around 2:55 a.m., RCMP from Buffalo Narrows and La Loche responded to a home in Turnor Lake after a woman was reported to be injured.

RELATED: Turnor Lake killing renews calls for more supports in northern Sask.

Officers found the woman inside the home at the scene where she was pronounced dead by paramedics. The man was found outside the home, where he was arrested.

Shalayah Montgrand’s death led to renewed calls to the province for more supports in northern Saskatchewan – especially police.

In May, the province said a vacant community safety officer position in the area of Turnor Lake was in the process of being filled.