Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes investigators have confirmed that a second vehicle was struck by gunfire during a fatal incident on Highway 39 that left one woman dead.
The shooting occurred on the evening of September 12, approximately three kilometres northwest of Weyburn near the Richardson Pioneer grain terminals. Two women were traveling in a black Ford Explorer when a loud crack was heard. Police later determined that a firearm had been discharged, striking the vehicle and fatally injuring the 44-year-old passenger, a woman from Weyburn. She died at the scene. Her death is being treated as suspicious.
The driver, also from the Weyburn area, was not injured and is not considered a suspect. RCMP say the incident may have been random in nature.
On September 13, a member of the public contacted RCMP to report that they had been driving on Highway 39 around 8:00 p.m. on the night of the shooting and believed they may have been traveling behind the Ford Explorer. The individual recalled hearing two “pops” that sounded like rocks hitting their windshield, but noticed no damage at the time. The next day, they discovered a flat tire on their SUV.
Forensic examination conducted by the Regina RCMP Forensic Identification Section on September 15 confirmed the tire had been damaged by a gunshot. Investigators determined the SUV had passed the Ford Explorer and continued toward Weyburn after the incident. The driver, who did not know the occupants of the Explorer, was unaware of the shooting and reported no injuries.
RCMP are withholding specific details about which tire was damaged, citing the integrity of the investigation. The identity of the reporting individual is also being kept confidential.
“We understand the current circumstances of this investigation may cause concern, particularly for locals and those who travel on Highway 39,” said Inspector Ashley St. Germaine of the RCMP Major Crimes Branch. “We are asking the public to think back to that night and report any suspicious people, vehicles, or activity.”
Police are urging farmers and residents in the area to remain vigilant, lock vehicles, and remove keys. Highway 39 has since reopened, but RCMP say there will be an increased police presence in the Weyburn area through the weekend.
Anyone with information is asked to contact RCMP at 310-RCMP (7267), call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or dial 911 in an emergency.
