Saskatchewan RCMP have made a significant breakthrough in a 2023 homicide case that shook the Meadow Lake community. Two individuals now face murder charges in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred last year.
Charges Laid in Year-Old Homicide Investigation
The Saskatchewan RCMP's Major Crimes Unit has announced that two suspects have been formally charged with first-degree murder. The charges stem from an incident that took place on September 3, 2023, in Meadow Lake, a community located approximately 250 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon.
According to police reports, officers responded to a shooting incident in the 200 block of 1st Street West. Upon arrival, they discovered an adult male victim with life-threatening injuries. Despite emergency medical response, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Suspects Identified and Charged
The accused have been identified as 20-year-old Tristen Cook and an 18-year-old male who cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Both individuals were already in custody on unrelated matters when the murder charges were filed.
Cook faces multiple charges including:
- First-degree murder
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm
- Possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized
- Possession of a firearm contrary to an order
The youth suspect has been charged with first-degree murder and is scheduled to appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on July 15.
Ongoing Investigation Continues
While the charges represent a major development in the case, RCMP emphasize that their investigation remains active. Authorities are continuing to pursue all leads and gather additional evidence.
"Our investigators have worked diligently on this case for nearly a year," said an RCMP spokesperson. "These charges demonstrate our commitment to seeking justice for the victim and his family, but our work is not yet complete."
The RCMP are encouraging anyone with information about the September 2023 incident to come forward, particularly those who may have witnessed events in the 200 block of 1st Street West around the time of the shooting.
Both accused remain in custody as the judicial process moves forward, bringing a measure of closure to a community that has been waiting for answers since the tragic event occurred nearly ten months ago.
