Winnipeg police say that they believe there is a direct correlation between the rising number of homicides and the meth crisis in Winnipeg. 

Over the weekend the 17th and 18th homicides of the year occurred. 

On May 24, 2019, at approximately 5:20 p.m., members of the Winnipeg Police Service responded to a residence in the 900 block of Greencrest Avenue for the report of suspicious circumstances.

Upon arrival, officers located a deceased adult male.

On May 25, 2019, at approximately 2:45 a.m., members of the Winnipeg Police Service responded to a residence in the 400 block of Simcoe Street for the report of an injured person.

Upon arrival, officers located an adult female that had been stabbed. She was transported to hospital in critical condition where she was pronounced deceased. 

This investigation is continuing in both cases by members of the Homicide Unit. Anyone with information that may assist investigators is asked to call 204-986-6508 or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS (8477).

On pace for record year

In 2011 Winnipeg had the most homicides ever with 41. So far 2019 is on pace to end around 45 homicides.

Const. Jay Murray from the Winnipeg Police Service says that they understand the rising numbers have the public worried. He pointed out, however, that the nature of homicides are not completely random. "They're usually committed by people who know the victim."

Murray pointed out that these two most recent cases are too early in the investigation to comment on whether or not they were drug-related. But the rise in gun violence leaves no doubt that overall the problem is caused by drugs.

Murray encouraged people to make reports of suspicious activity, especially houses that people think might be drug houses.

"Be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn't feel right in your neighbourhood report it. There are a number of reporting mechanisms you can do online and help us become aware of these residences that are causing problems."

Murray says that the public can help police become aware of these problem areas so that they can direct more resources to them.