Grand Chief Cathy Merrick of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) passed away suddenly on September 6, 2024, after collapsing outside the Winnipeg courthouse. She was addressing the media regarding the acquittal of a correctional officer involved in the death of William Ahmo, when she experienced a medical emergency. Despite attempts to revive her, she was pronounced dead at the hospital. Merrick was 62 years old. Merrick, a trailblazing leader and the first woman to serve as AMC Grand Chief, was re-elected to her second term in July 2024. Known for her fierce advocacy, she focused on issues such as the search for missing women in Manitoba landfills, water rights, and equitable healthcare for First Nations. Her death marks a significant loss for the communities she tirelessly served. Political leaders and organizations across Canada, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, expressed deep condolences, praising her dedication and leadership​. ​

The Brandon Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating this person who is: “WANTED BY POLICE” Trinity ANTOINE FOR Break & Enter & Possession of a Weapon Fail to attend Court.  On June 20th, 2024, police responded to a residential Break & Enter in progress located in the 1500 block of 26th Street. Police located Trinity ANTOINE attempting to leave the area in a cab with stolen merchandise taken from the residence. ANTOINE was arrested and found to be in possession of mace. ANTOINE was release, however, has failed to attend court to answer to the charges. Trinity ANTOINE’s whereabouts are unknown currently, please contact Brandon crime stoppers with any information. CRIME OF THE WEEK for September 6, 2024 The Brandon Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in solving a Theft Under $5000.  On July 17th, 2024, 2 females and 1 male entered a business located in the 900 block of 18th Street North. The thieves were captured on video surveillance stealing house appliances worth in excess of $1000.00.   ********************************************* If you have information about this or any other crime you are asked to contact Brandon Crime Stoppers @ 204-727-TIPS (8477), www.brandoncrimestoppers.com or by texting BCSTIP+your message to CRIMES (274637).  Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to Call Display.  Your call is not recorded and your identity will remain anonymous.  Crime Stoppers will pay up to $2000.00 cash for information that leads to the solution of a crime members for id. sui.

On September 4th at 6:10PM police attended a residence in the 900 block of Rosser Avenue to check on a curfew and clause stating, “must submit to searches for contraband.” A search of the 52-year-old female’s apartment resulted in officers locating 46 grams of Cocaine, a digital scale, packaging material and $375 cash. The female was arrested and held in cells at BPS station for court in the morning on September 5th, 2024.

At 12:45AM on September 3rd a 911 caller advised that a known to them 24-year-old male had shown up to their house with a stab wound. The male had been at the 000 block of 10th Street when he was attacked by two males with knives/machetes. The male escaped with a broken arm and cut to his arm. The attackers had stolen his bag with medication, ID, PS4 and cash. Police shortly after located an 18-year-old male matching the description of one of the accused, when members approached, he fled on foot. He was apprehended after a short foot chase and found to be in possession of the medication. Court date set for November 18th, 2024. Later in the day on September 3rd police identified the second suspect out front of the same location and a 22-year-old male was taken into custody. He was found to be wearing the same clothes as the previous night which had the victim’s blood on his shoes and clothing. He was lodged at BPS for court in the morning.

The Brandon School Division Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the following appointments made at the Inaugural Meeting of the Board of Trustees, held on Tuesday, September 3, 2024: Senior Administration and Staff of Brandon School Division would like to congratulate Trustee Linda Ross and Trustee Duncan Ross on their respective appointments as Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson of the Brandon School Division Board of Trustees. We extend our very best wishes for the 2024-2025 school year.