Manhunt continues as RCMP redirects search for BC murder suspects

The RCMP has redirected its search for two BC teens charged with second-degree murder in the death of one man and named as suspects in the death of two others.

On July 28, Manitoba RCMP announced 19-year-old Kam McLeod, and 18-year-old Bryer Schmegelsky were possibly near or in York Landing, Manitoba.

Multiple RCMP resources are being sent to York Landing, MB, to investigate a tip that the two suspects are possibly in, or near, the community. A heavy police presence can be expected in the area. We will continue to update you as information becomes available.

— RCMP Manitoba (@rcmpmb) July 28, 2019

This latest development came after members of the Bear Clean Patrol, Indigenous-led community watch group, reported that they spotted the suspects while patrolling in York Landing on Sunday.

Shortly after the RCMP made its announcement, there were several unconfirmed reports that McLeod Schmegelsky had been located.

See also:

• Police release video footage of BC murder suspects 
• Police confirm photo being shared online is not BC man wanted for murder
• UBC community ‘shocked’ after botany lecturer murdered in Northern BC
• Teens charged with murder in Northern BC as cross-country manhunt intensifies
• 2 missing teens now considered suspects in 3 Northern BC deaths
• Young couple found in BC died from gunshot wounds: RCMP 

Police and York Factory First Nation Chief, Leroy Constant, clarified that the suspects were not in custody.

Despite reports – there is no one in custody at this time. RCMP officers remain in the community of York Landing & continue to investigate the reported sighting of the two suspects. All required resources are being used in this ongoing investigation. Updates to follow.

— RCMP Manitoba (@rcmpmb) July 29, 2019

“The (2) suspects are still at large and have NOT been caught. RCMP will remain on scene with Helicopter, Dogs & Emergency Response Team. They will remain until further notice” said Constant, in a statement.

“We are urging everyone to remain indoors with windows and doors locked. Patrols of the community will be done on a 24 hour basis.”

Manitoba RCMP also requested York Landing residents to remain vigilant and prioritize their personal safety during the ongoing investigation.

All efforts are being made in York Landing to apprehend two individuals matching the description of the suspects. The safety of community members is our priority. We remind residents to stay inside & check all doors & windows to ensure they are closed & locked. #rcmpmb

— RCMP Manitoba (@rcmpmb) July 29, 2019

Authorities were previously focusing their search on Gillum, Manitoba after the RAV4  McLeod and Schmegelsky were driving was discovered on fire near that area.

The teens are each facing a second-degree murder charge in the death of Vancouver resident Leonard Dyck, whose body was found near a burnt-out pickup truck, close to Dease Lake, BC on July 19.

They are also suspects in the deaths of 24-year-old Chynna Noelle Deese and 23-year-old Lucas Robertson Fowler.

BC RCMP

Kam McLeod is described as:

• 6 foot 4
• Approximately 169 pounds
• Dark brown hair and facial hair
• Brown eyes

Bryer Schmegelsky is described as:

• 6 foot 4
• Approximately 169 pounds
• Sandy brown hair

The BC RCMP Major Crime tiplines remain open in support of the Leonard Dyck, Lucas Fowler and Chynna Deese homicide investigations. Anyone with information is asked to call 1-877-543-4822 or 778-290-5291.

Anyone who sees McLeod or Schmegelsky is instructed to call 911 immediately.