Victim in Big River FN stabbings revealed as suspect, one still at large

The 29-year-old Ryan Lachance was arrested in a home on Big River First Nation Wednesday evening after a four-day manhunt triggered by three stabbing incidents, each with a single victim, in Big River First Nation on Feb. 15. (Saskatchewan RCMP) (Saskatchewan RCMP)

Saskatchewan RCMP have determined the third victim in a string of stabbings on Big River First Nation is now considered a suspect.

Police arrested and charged 25-year-old Jacky Lachance once he was released from hospital.

He faces two counts of aggravated assault, one count of robbery with a weapon and one count of break and enter.

Lachance appeared in Prince Albert Provincial Court on Tuesday.

The original suspect in the stabbings, 29-year-old Ryan Lachance, is still at large.

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Continued investigation by RCMP has resulted in a total of nine charges being laid.

They include two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of robbery, one count of possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose, one count of mischief under $5,000, one count of break and enter and two counts of failing to comply with release order conditions.

Ryan Lachance has also been charged for failing to attend court in relation to a missed appearance earlier in February.

Ryan Lachance, 29, is described as approximately five feet, six inches tall, weighing 150 pounds. Lachance has brown eyes and brown hair.

Other identifying features include a teardrop tattoo under his left eye. Lachance was last seen wearing a black hoodie with a large white logo on it and black pants.

In addition to the stabbing investigation, Ryan Lachance is also wanted by Big River RCMP in relation to an unrelated aggravated assault in November of 2024.

Lachance is considered armed and dangerous. Police warn residents that he should not be approached if he is spotted.

If residents do spot him, they are encouraged to contact police immediately.

The last confirmed sighting of Lachance was reported to be around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, in the Victoire area.

RCMP claim he may be travelling in a stolen black Kia Optima with the Saskatchewan license plate 649 NPP.Sask. RCMP did note that the Lachance is not confirmed to be in possession of the vehicle.

On Feb. 17, Big River RCMP located and seized a grey BMW SUV that Ryan Lachance is believed to have used.

Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate the incidents and encourage anyone who may have information on Lachance’s whereabouts to contact police or submit a tip to Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers.