Carman, Manitoba – A tragic incident has shaken the small community of Carman, Manitoba, as a 29-year-old man has been charged with five counts of first-degree murder after allegedly killing five members of his family, including his three children. The victims were identified as 30-year-old Amanda Clearwater, six-year-old Bethany, four-year-old Jayven, two-and-half-month old Isabella, and 17-year-old Myah-Lee Gratton.
The devastating chain of events began when RCMP officers were called to Highway 3 for reports of a hit-and-run. A 30-year-old woman, who was living common-law with the suspect, was found dead along the highway. Shortly after, a vehicle with the suspect’s three children inside was discovered on fire on Highway 248, where the children were pronounced dead at the scene. Another female victim, the family’s 17-year-old niece, was found dead at a home in Carman. All the victims lived together in the small community of Carman.
The suspect, Ryan Manoakeesick, was arrested at the scene of the fire and has been charged with five counts of first-degree murder. The investigation is ongoing, with police working to piece together a timeline of the tragic events. Autopsies were conducted on Monday and are scheduled to continue on Tuesday.
The Premier of Manitoba, Wab Kinew, and Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cathy Merrick both expressed their grief and condolences to the community, urging Manitobans to come together to support and protect the vulnerable.
The Mayor of Carman, Brent Owen, conveyed the devastating impact of the tragedy on the small community, emphasizing the need for unity and support. The local school division has also activated Crisis Response Teams for the affected schools to provide necessary support for students, staff, and the community.
As the investigation continues, the community of Carman mourns the loss of an entire family, coming to terms with an unimaginable tragedy that has deeply affected them.