June 24, 2024
Poundmaker First Nation, Saskatchewan
As a result of continued investigation, Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes has charged two adult males in relation to the homicide of 31-year-old Lee Bearsears.
27-year-old Craig Fox of Little Pine First Nation was arrested in Regina on June 17, 2024 and has been charged with one count of second-degree murder, Section 235 (1), Criminal Code. He is scheduled to appear in North Battleford Provincial Court on July 4, 2024.
44-year-old Preston Checkosis of Poundmaker First Nation was arrested in Saskatoon on June 10, 2024 and has been charged with one count of accessory after the fact to murder, Section 240, Criminal Code. He appeared in North Battleford Provincial Court on June 10, 2024.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information should contact Saskatchewan RCMP by dialling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
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Backgrounder
Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crime Unit investigating suspicious death on Poundmaker First Nation
2023-10-18
On October 16, 2023, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Cut Knife RCMP received a report of a deceased individual located in a rural area on Poundmaker First Nation.
With the assistance of the Saskatchewan Coroners Service, Major Crimes has identified the deceased individual as 31-year-old Lee Bearsears of Little Pine First Nation. His family have been notified.
Major Crimes continue to work diligently to determine the circumstances leading to Lee's death, which investigators have determined is suspicious in nature.
There is currently an increased police presence on Poundmaker First Nation and Little Pine First Nation in relation to this ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information about Lee's whereabouts in and around October 2023, or his death, should contact Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes at 639-625-4535. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
