A 32-year-old Skidegate man has been arrested after a pedestrian was struck and killed in what RCMP are now calling a targeted homicide in Haida Gwaii. The incident occurred around 1:15 p.m. on April 22 in the 200 block of Front Street in Skidegate. The victim was transported to hospital but later died from his injuries.
Police immediately treated the incident as suspicious, and the North District Major Crime Unit took over the investigation, working alongside local Daajing Giids RCMP. Investigators say there was no broader threat to public safety, and the attack was not random.
The case has drawn significant community attention on social media, with some residents questioning the timeline of the investigation. In response, Sgt. Chris Manseau of the Daajing Giids RCMP said police worked “diligently, round the clock” to gather evidence and interview witnesses. He stressed that while an arrest is a key milestone, securing charge approval and ensuring a successful prosecution is the ultimate goal.
Following the incident, the Skidegate Band Council implemented a temporary curfew, citing community safety. RCMP say they will increase patrols in the area in the coming days to reassure residents. Anyone with information or video footage is urged to contact police.
