‘Very serious incidents’: Winnipeg police focus on neighbourhood in wake of homicides

Winnipeg police provide an update on a crime suppression initiative by the Guns and Gangs unit.

A Winnipeg neighbourhood that has been the site of three homicides last month was the recent target of enhanced surveillance and enforcement by police.

Winnipeg police said they increased their police presence in the William Whyte neighbourhood to combat gang-related activity.

It stemmed from three homicides in the area; two in the 300 block of Alfred Avenue on Feb. 15 and one on Feb. 27 in the 500 block of Magnus Avenue, as well as multiple firearm offences, assaults and arsons.

“This particular month of February 2025, it became very apparent that some very serious incidents had happened in a very short period of time, in a very small neighbourhood,” said Const. Dani McKinnon.

Between Feb. 26 and March 9, members of the guns and gangs unit pursued outstanding arrest warrants, executed a search warrant related to firearms on Manitoba Avenue, and enforced bail conditions.

There were nine arrests made during the period.

“Many of these offenders were linked to known criminal and gang organizations,” said Const. Dani McKinnon.

McKinnon said reporting to police helps them determine where to place resources and said people who are feeling unsafe in their community can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.

“The reality is that sometimes, it’s important to be anonymous,” she said. “People feel more comfortable being anonymous.”

The tip line can be accessed by calling 204-786-8477.