RCMP Major Crimes Unit investigate fatal fire in Wetaskiwin

January 25, 2020
Wetaskiwin, Alberta

News release

Wetaskiwin RCMP and the Major Crimes Unit are investigating after human remains were discovered in the burned out structure of "Manny's Hotel."

Shortly before midnight on January 14, emergency crews responded to the structure fire just off 40 Avenue in Wetaskiwin. After the fire was extinguished, the extreme cold weather hindered efforts to examine the scene and conduct an investigation into the cause of the blaze. By January 20, crews had managed to thaw enough ice to begin an examination of the scene, which has lasted several days.

On January 23, human remains were discovered in the burned out building. On the same day, the fire investigator determined that the cause of the fire was suspicious, resulting in the RCMP major crimes unit being brought in to assist with the investigation.

An autopsy was held on the 24 of January; however, the identity of the deceased has not yet been confirmed, and the cause and manner of death of the deceased has yet to be determined. Additional tests will be conducted to answer these important questions.

RCMP continue to examine the scene of the fire and ask anyone who has information regarding this incident to contact Wetaskiwin RCMP at 780-312-7267. If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store."

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Contact information

Cpl. Curtis Peters
780-509-3970 ext 5 (after hours on call)

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