Manitoba RCMP have charged a second suspect in connection with the shooting death of a 33‑year‑old woman on Keeseekoowenin First Nation last summer. The homicide occurred on July 28, 2025, when officers were called to a residence in the community. The woman was found dead at the scene, and a 26‑year‑old man was rushed to hospital with serious injuries.
The first arrest in the case came last August, when 52‑year‑old Frank La Forge was taken into custody and charged in relation to the shooting. Since then, investigators with the RCMP Major Crime Services have continued to gather evidence and interview witnesses, ultimately identifying a second suspect.
On March 19, officers from the Yellowhead and Russell RCMP detachments located the suspect — 31‑year‑old Darion Burns of Keeseekoowenin First Nation — driving along Highway 45. Police initiated a traffic stop and arrested him without incident.
Burns is now charged with first‑degree murder, attempted murder, and obstructing justice. He remains in custody as the investigation continues.
RCMP say the arrests reflect months of detailed investigative work and collaboration between detachments. Officers continue to encourage anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward as they work to fully piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
Keeseekoowenin First Nation, located near Riding Mountain National Park, has been working closely with RCMP and community support services since the incident. The shooting deeply affected the community, prompting calls for continued safety measures and support for those impacted.
The RCMP have not released further details about the circumstances of the shooting or the relationship between the suspects and the victims, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
More updates will be provided as the case progresses.
