On October 5, 2022 at approximately 6:05 p.m., Big River RCMP received a report of a deceased individual in a trail area on Big River First Nation.
Officers immediately responded and located a deceased male. Saskatchewan RCMP's Major Crime Unit has taken carriage of investigation into the death, which is considered suspicious at this time.
The male has been identified as 30-year-old Lionel Whitehead of Pelican Lake First Nation. His family has been notified.
Investigators are releasing the victim's name as they are asking members of the public to report any sightings or interactions with Lionel since September 30, 2022.
Additionally, investigators would like the public to report any sightings of a white, 2017 Chevrolet 1500 truck with Saskatchewan license plate 964 HHA since September 30. The truck was reported stolen from Pelican Lake First Nation between the evening of September 30 and the morning of October 3, 2022. The truck was located near the same trail on Big River First Nation on October 5 and investigation has determined it may be related to this investigation.
The truck may have been in the Pelican Lake First Nation, Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation or Big River First Nation areas.
It has distinguishing features such as a different tire/rim on the back driver's side and black tape over the driver's side taillight.
Anyone with information about Lionel or the white truck should call Saskatchewan RCMP by calling 310-RCMP or their local police service. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.