The RCMP is investigating a possible sighting of the B.C. homicide suspects in York Landing, Man. about 200 kilometres southwest of Gillam, Man. — the epicentre of the search for Kam McLeod and Bryer Schmegelsky.
The Mounties tweeted Sunday evening multiple resources were being sent to York Landing to investigate a tip that the two suspects are possibly in or near the community.
“A heavy police presence can be expected in the area,” RCMP said in a tweet. They are asking residents not to post photos on social media of officers in the community, to avoid disclosing their location.
Despite online rumors, police said as of 9:30 p.m. Sunday no one was in custody and they remain in York Landing continuing their search for the suspects.
McLeod and Schmegelsky have been charged with second-degree murder in the death of University of British Columbia lecturer Leonard Dyck and are also suspects in the fatal shooting of a couple — Australian Lucas Fowler and American Chynna Deese.
The RCMP is reminding people not to approach the suspects. Anyone with tips or information is asked to call 911, or local police in the Gillam area at 204-652-2200 or in the Thompson area at 204-677-6911.
Read more:
- Military to provide air support in hunt for B.C. homicide suspects
- Bear Clan offers support, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs rolls out safety strategy as search continues for B.C. homicide suspects
- 'It's nasty': RCMP battle elements in search of murder suspects believed hidden in Gillam wilderness
- Suspects spotted twice in Gillam area before burned vehicle found, believed to still be in area: RCMP
Bear Clan members reportedly spotted suspects
Sunday evening, the leader of Winnipeg’s Bear Clan James Favel said the suspects were spotted by two Bear Clan members.
Favel says around 4:15 p.m. Sunday, the members saw two men on foot in the area who matched the description of the suspects.
He says the suspects ran away and the Bear Clan members called the RCMP.
“That’s kind of scary, I want this to come to a peaceful end for everybody involved and I just hope this is resolved quickly and peacefully,” said Favel.
MKO and York Landing chief warn residents
York Factory First Nation Chief Leroy Constant says the RCMP will remain in York Landing Sunday night with a helicopter, dogs, and an emergency response team.
As the search continues in the area, Chief Leroy Constant and Manitoba Keewatinoki Okimanak Inc. MKO is urging residents to park their vehicles, remain inside, and lock their doors.
“This is a fluid situation. Everyone wants this to end today in a safe and controlled manner. Our prayers are with the residents of York Factory,” stated MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee.
Officials are asking residents to share this message with anyone who does not have social media and may be unaware of the situation.
“We encourage people living in the York Factory area to remain vigilant while the RCMP conducts their search for these two suspects,” stated MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee.
-With files from CTV’s Josh Crabb & Renee Rodgers
