October 17, 2023
Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
On October 12, 2023 at approximately 2:20 p.m., Waskesiu/Montreal Lake RCMP received a report of a firearms discharge outside of a residence on Montreal Lake Cree Nation.
Officers immediately responded and located an injured adult male, who was taken to hospital with injuries described as serious in nature. Investigation determined that there was an altercation between the victim and two other males. A firearm was discharged and the male was injured.
Officers immediately began searching for the suspects.
One was arrested at a residence on Montreal Lake Cree Nation later on October 12. The other was arrested at a residence north of Montreal Lake on October 13.
As a result of investigation, 27-year-old Deon Smith and 29-year-old Justice Bird, both from Montreal Lake Cree Nation are charged with:
- one count, aggravated assault, Section 268(2), Criminal Code;
- one count, assault with a weapon, Section 267(1), Criminal Code; and
- one count, discharge firearm with intent, Section 244, Criminal Code.
Both accused appeared in Prince Albert Provincial Court on October 16, 2023.
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Backgrounder
UPDATE 2: Saskatchewan RCMP issue dangerous person alert for Montreal Lake Cree Nation
2023-10-13
As a result of ongoing investigation, Justice Bird, the subject of a dangerous person alert in the Montreal Lake Cree Nation area, was located and arrested by police today at a residence north of Montreal Lake.
The investigation is ongoing. An update will be provided when available.
CANCELLED: Saskatchewan RCMP issue dangerous person alert for Montreal Lake Cree Nation
2023-10-12
The dangerous persons alert for Montreal Lake Cree Nation issued by the Saskatchewan RCMP has been cancelled as there is no current immediate risk to public safety identified – if this changes, we will update the public immediately.
At this time, one individual has been taken into custody.
29-year-old Justice Bird from has not been located. He is described as being 5'9" and weighing approximately 166 lbs. He has black hair and brown eyes and has several facial tattoos. Last known to be wearing a white ball cap and black and white clothes. The public should remain vigilant.
If anyone sees an individual matching the description of Justice Bird (photo attached), call 911. He is considered dangerous, may be armed and should not be approached.
Information can also be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
Police remain on scene and the public can expect to see an increased police presence in the Montreal Lake Cree Nation area.
The investigation remains ongoing. One injured person has been reported to police, as noted in the emergency alert. They were transported to hospital. We do not have an update on their condition.
More details will be issued tomorrow or as they become available.
Saskatchewan RCMP issue dangerous person alert for Montreal Lake Cree Nation
2023-10-12
A dangerous person alert has been issued by Waskesiu/Montreal Lake RCMP after reports of two male suspects reported to be armed with a firearm on Montreal Lake Cree Nation. One injury has been reported to police.
Suspect #1 is 29-year-old Justice Bird. He is described as wearing a white ball cap and black and white clothes.
We're working to definitively confirm the second suspect's identity and description.
Both males were last seen on foot in the area of House 713 on Montreal Lake Cree Nation.
Residents are asked to shelter in place. Stay inside and lock doors and windows.
Do not approach the suspects. Report emergencies or tips to 911.
Further information will be provided when available.
