A suspect is in custody after the deaths of 3 children and 2 women in southern Manitoba

WARNING: The following story contains details that may disturb some people.

Manitoba RCMP are investigating five suspicious deaths at three locations in southern Manitoba.

Among the five dead are three children and two women.

The investigation began around 7:30 a.m. Sunday when officers responded to a report of a hit-and-run on Highway 3 near Carman, Man. When Mounties arrived at the scene, they found a woman's body in a nearby ditch. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The incident continued around 10 a.m. when RCMP received a call about a vehicle on fire on RM 248 in Cartier. While officers were en route, a witness pulled three small children from the burning vehicle. All three children were found dead at the scene.

The suspect was arrested at the scene of the car fire.

Officers continued their investigation, which led them to a home in Carman, where they found the body of another woman.

The 29-year-old suspect is in custody and is not a threat to the public. No charges have been filed.

The suspects and the victims were known to each other. All five deaths are considered suspicious. Police have not released the identity of the suspect or the victim.

According to the police, these three incidents are related to each other.

RCMP officers are continuing to investigate.

“On behalf of the RCMP, I would like to express my condolences to the families and friends who have lost a loved one today,” said Insp. Tim Arsenault with the Manitoba RCMP.

“As a parent, I can't imagine how painful your loss is. Please know that the RCMP and everyone in Manitoba are with you.”

Expressing grief

After Saturday's announcement, Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham and Manitoba Premier Webb Kenew took to social media to express their grief.

In a post on X, Gillingham said he grew up in Carman and still has many connections in the area.

“I am shocked and saddened by today's news,” he said. “My deepest condolences to the community and families affected by this tragedy.”

Having grown up in Karman and still having many connections in the area, I am shocked and saddened by today's news. My sincere condolences to the public and families affected by this tragedy. #Manitoba

— Mayor Scott Gillingham (@ScottGillingham)
February 11, 2024

Kinew said he sends comfort and strength to Carman's family and community.

“We offer our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy,” he said.

Sending comfort and strength to the families and community of Carman during this difficult time of loss. Our condolences to all those affected by this tragedy.

— Wab Kinew (@WabKinew)
February 12, 2024