The Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes Unit is investigating what it deems a "suspicious death" after a woman was fatally shot while riding as a passenger in an SUV just outside of Weyburn Friday night. The incident is currently believed to be random in nature.
Shortly after 8 p.m. on Friday, two adult women, who were friends, were traveling together in a black Ford Explorer on Highway 39 near the grain terminals on the northwest edge of town, heading towards Weyburn. They were the only occupants of the vehicle when, according to police, a large crack was heard.
Investigators have determined that a firearm was discharged, and a shot entered the back of the SUV, striking the passenger. The victim, a 44-year-old woman from Weyburn, died at the scene. Her family has since been notified.
The adult female driver, also from the Weyburn area, did not report any physical injuries to police. She is not considered a suspect and is not in police custody.
During a press conference on Saturday afternoon, Inspector Ashley St. Germaine addressed the ongoing investigation and the potential for public concern.
"We recognize the information we share may cause concern. We know you have questions, and it's our job to thoroughly investigate and to get answers," St. Germaine stated. The investigation is still in its very early stages, and police are urging the public to come forward with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem.
"We need all the information that we can get because we don't know right now... what little piece might be the turning point for our investigation," she explained. Police are asking specifically for "dash cam video, cell phone video, anything that might help us" from the area of Highway 39 northwest of Weyburn around 8 p.m. Friday. Examples of useful information include sightings of erratic drivers, people taking part in target practice, or any other suspicious activities.
While the incident appears random, police do not believe there is an increased risk to the public at this time. "Should something change and that risk assessment changes... we will notify the public immediately," St. Germaine assured reporters.
Weyburn residents can expect an increased police presence throughout the weekend as they work in conjunction with the Weyburn RCMP, RCMP Forensic Identification Services, and the Weyburn Police Service.
Anyone with information is asked to call 911 in an emergency or 310-RCMP for non-emergencies. To report anonymously, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.