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Summary

Saskatchewan Stabbings: Here's Everything We Know About What Happened & The Manhunt So Far

One of the brothers is dead, the other remains at large.

An RCMP vehicle in Saskatchewan.

An RCMP vehicle in Saskatchewan.

Managing Editor, Canada

Despite a second "relentless" overnight search, police say Saskatchewan stabbing suspect Myles Sanderson remains at large. His brother, Damien Sanderson, has been confirmed dead.

This article contains content that may be upsetting to some of our readers.

On Monday evening, Saskatchewan RCMP confirmed that Damien Sanderson, 31, had been found dead from injuries that are not believed to be self-inflicted.

His body was found at around 11:30 a.m. near a property that police were investigating in James Smith Cree Nation.

Myles Sanderson, who has now been identified as Damien Sanderson's brother, remains at large.

It is not yet clear whether Myles is a suspect in Damien's death, and police are yet to confirm further details about the circumstances that led up to his death.

Both men face a slew of charges following a mass stabbing that took place on Sunday, September 4, which has left 10 people dead and 18 injured, some critically.

The attacks took place at 13 different locations on the James Smith Cree Nation and nearby Weldon, northeast of Saskatoon.

Some of the victims are believed to have been targeted, while others are thought to have been attacked by the men at random.

As police continue their search for Myles Sanderson, who may be armed and dangerous, here's everything we know so far:

What happened?

During the early hours of Sunday morning, Saskatchewan RCMP received a call reporting a stabbing on the James Smith Cree Nation, located 60 kilometres east of Prince Albert.

Shortly after, they received more calls reporting additional stabbings at different locations across the same community.

Damien Sanderson and Myles Sanderson were named as suspects.

Several hours later, a Dangerous Persons Alert was issued by Saskatchewan RCMP to residents of the community and surrounding areas, urging the public to "seek immediate shelter and shelter in place."

By noon, the alert had been extended to the whole of Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta. Residents were warned that two suspects were travelling in a vehicle and may have attacked some of their victims at random.

As many as 10 individuals had been confirmed dead by this time, while at least 18 victims had been hospitalized. Officials say 4 of the injured victims are in a critical condition.

Saskatchewan RCMP confirmed that they are investigating incidents across 13 locations in the communities of the James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon.

It is reported to be among the deadliest acts of mass violence Canada has ever seen.

The victims

Police are yet to confirm the identities of the victims who were killed and injured during Sunday's attacks.

However, some family members have come forward to confirm that their loved ones were killed.

CTV News reports that among the dead are a mother of two, a 77-year-old widower, a frontline worker and a 14-year-old boy.

The frontline worker, who CTV identifies as Gloria Burns, reportedly died after responding to a crisis call during the stabbing spree and getting caught in the violence.

Formal details, including the names of the deceased, are yet to be confirmed.

Who are the suspects?

On Sunday, police named the suspects as brothers Damien Sanderson and Myles Sanderson.

Damien Sanderson was described by police as a 31-year-old male who is 5 foot 7, 155 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

Myles Sanderson is described as a 30-year-old male who is 6 foot 1, and 240 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes.

Myles remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous. His connection to his brother's death remains unconfirmed.

Myles Sanderson is charged with three counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted murder and one count of breaking and entering a residence.

Damien Sanderson was charged with one count of first-degree murder, one count of attempted murder and one count of breaking and entering a residence.

A motive for the attacks has not yet been confirmed.

Where is Myles Sanderson now?

As of Tuesday morning, Myles Sanderson remains missing, although police say they're deploying all available resources to find him.

The authorities say that Myles may be injured and may attempt to seek medical help.

He is still believed to be driving a black Nissan Rogue SUV with Saskatchewan license plate 119 MPI. It is not clear whether he's travelling with anyone else.

Police continue to urge the public to be cautious and alert and take the necessary precautions.

Reactions

In a statement on Sunday, Justin Trudeau described feeling "shocked and devastated by the horrific attacks today in James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon [...]."

He said Canadians would mourn with everybody impacted by the "tragic violence" and urged the public to listen to the advice of law enforcement.

"Those responsible for today’s abhorrent attacks must be fully brought to justice," he added.

Sharing a similar message, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said, "There are no words to adequately describe the pain and loss caused by this senseless violence."

He added, "All of Saskatchewan grieves with the victims and their families."

Speaking about the attacks, Chakastaypasin Chief Calvin Sanderson said, "They were our relatives, friends. Mostly we're all related here, so it's pretty hard. It's pretty horrific," per CTV News.

Assembly of First Nations Chief RoseAnne Archibald also took to social media, adding, "My deepest condolences to the many families affected by today’s tragedy in James Smith Cree Nation #Saskatchewan."

She continued, "I’ve been in contact w/ Chief Wally Burns to ensure that his community’s needs are met [...]."

Anybody with information related to the attacks or the whereabouts of Myles Sanderson is urged to call 911 immediately.

This is a developing story. Check back for more details.

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    • Managing Editor

      Helena Hanson (she/her) is the Managing Editor of Canada for Narcity and MTL Blog, where she brings her expertise in dreamy, aspirational travel journalism to life. A first-class graduate of Cardiff University's School of Journalism, Helena has a passion for inspiring readers to discover the magic in their own backyards. Originally from the U.K., Helena has spent years uncovering hidden gems and must-see destinations across countries like Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and more. Having lived in both Canada and Australia, she's become a seasoned expert in off-the-beaten-path adventures and bucket-list experiences that don't break the bank. Whether she's writing about things to do in Ottawa, Montreal, or her favourite spot—Disney World—Helena hopes to leave readers dreaming of their next adventure.

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