Saskatchewan RCMP Probe 33 Homicides in 2025, Sustaining High Rate
The Saskatchewan RCMP is grappling with a significant number of homicide cases in 2025, sustaining a high rate of violent crimes. The Major Crimes branch has opened investigations into 33 homicide cases, resulting in 39 victims. This reflects a slight decrease from 2024, which saw 41 cases and 43 victims. However, the persistent high rate has raised concerns about public safety and investigative capacity.
Saskatchewan Homicide Statistics for 2025
In 2025, most of the homicide cases were concentrated within the Saskatchewan RCMP’s jurisdiction. Out of the total investigations:
- 31 files involved 34 victims in Saskatchewan RCMP’s area.
- Three cases involved children aged 12 and under.
- Three teenagers aged 13 to 19 were also victims.
- The majority of victims were young adults in their 20s (12 victims) and 30s (10 victims).
- Victims were found across various districts: 5 in the South District, 11 in Central District, and 18 in the North District.
Additionally, five victims were located within the Fire Hills First Nations Police Service jurisdiction.
Historical Context and Trends
The spike in 2025 follows a pattern over the last five years, as detailed below:
| Year | Homicide Files | Victims |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 31 | 36 |
| 2022 | 33 | 43 |
| 2023 | 31 | 31 |
| 2024 | 39 | 41 |
| 2025 | 33 | 39 |
Investigative Outcomes
In 2025, the Homicide Investigation Unit (HIU) successfully laid charges against 28 individuals. This included:
- Seven charges for first-degree murder
- Seventeen charges for second-degree murder
- Four manslaughter charges
Of those charged, the demographic breakdown revealed a predominance of males (89%) compared to females (11%). Additionally, eight young people aged 13 to 19 were among the accused.
Ongoing Challenges and Community Impact
Despite the resolution of 23 cases, 10 investigations remain open. The RCMP emphasizes the human aspect behind every statistic, acknowledging the profound impact on families affected by these tragedies.
Supt. Josh Graham, head of the Major Crimes Branch, stressed the continuing challenges facing investigators. The unit handled periods of intense activity, including multiple cases arising on the same day and significant crime rates concentrated within short time frames. He mentioned the importance of collaboration among various specialized units to ensure thorough investigations.
As Saskatchewan navigates through these turbulent times, the RCMP remains dedicated to ensuring public safety. Their commitment includes addressing unsolved cases and managing new investigations as they unfold in 2026.
