Update 2 – Manitoba RCMP look to the public for help with double homicide

RCMP Manitoba Major Crime Services investigators are now in the community of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan to speak to witnesses there in relation to the murders of Brent Denechezhe and Leona Tssessaze.

 

“Our time in Northlands Denesuline First Nation and the information that has been coming to us after we put out the pleas for help has resulted in us travelling to Prince Albert,” said lead investigator Constable David Giroux. “We keep following the investigation where it leads. We will not give up on finding answers about the deaths of these two young people who had their whole lives ahead of them.”

 

The RCMP continues to ask for people to come forward if they have any information. Please call the tip line at 431-489-8112 if you know anything related to this investigation.

 

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Northlands Denesuline First Nation, Manitoba                                                     March 20, 2024

20211350617

 

Update – Manitoba RCMP look to the public for help with double homicide

 

On March 20, 2024, RCMP Major Crime Services investigators participated in a smudge ceremony at the site of the double homicide that occurred on September 9, 2021. After the smudge, investigators began a search at the site.

 

“While we recognize that a significant amount of time has passed and that the remains of the home have been removed from the site, we know there is evidence to be recovered that will assist with our investigation into the murder of Brent Denechezhe and Leona Tssessaze,” said lead investigator Constable David Giroux. “The smudge allowed us to connect with the community, remember Leona and Brent, and really get prepared for the task at hand, and we thank the community for including us in the ceremony.”

 

The search is expected to last for two days, and officers continue to speak to people in the community.

 

The RCMP is still looking for information in relation to these homicides. Specifically, investigators want to speak to anyone who has knowledge of anyone leaving the community right after the murders and has not returned. In addition, police would like to speak to anyone who saw someone leaving Brent’s house between 4:30-5:30 am on September 9, 2021 – the day Brent and Leona were killed.

 

“We also have received information that people are sharing a photograph on Snapchat of Leona, which  was taken shortly before her death,” said Constable Giroux. “We know this photo exists, but we have not seen it. We would really like to see that photo and speak to anyone who has any information related to it.”

 

Police continue to ask people to come forward with any information. Officers continue to progress the investigation, but need the community’s help to get answers for Brent and Leona’s families.

 

If you have any information, please call the dedicated RCMP tip line at 431-489-8112, or speak to an officer in the community.

 

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Northlands Denesuline First Nation, Manitoba                                                     March 6, 2024

20211350617

 

Manitoba RCMP look to the public for help with double homicide

 

RCMP Major Crime Services is renewing calls for information into a double homicide in Northland Denesuline First Nation. On September 9, 2021, first responders attended to a house fire in Northland Denesuline First Nation. Upon examination of the scene, investigators discovered the remains of Brent Denechezhe, 31, and Leona Tssessaze, 24. Tragically, two lives were lost, two families shattered, and a community left reeling and searching for answers.

 

Within days of the fire, RCMP Major Crime Services investigators were engaged and it was determined the deaths were the result of a homicide. An intense investigation ensued, and investigators continue to work on putting all the pieces together.

 

“We’re bringing attention to this tragic event and renewing calls for information. We believe there are people out there who have valuable information about these murders. We are encouraging the public to call the tip line set up to receive information in relation to the murder of Brent and Leona,” said lead investigator Constable David Giroux. “No detail is insignificant. If you have anything to share, please call our tip line at 431-489-8112. Your contribution could be the key to finding answers for the families and community.”

 

Investigators are once again present in the community and will continue to look for answers for Brent and Leona’s families.

 

Photos attached.