One suspect found dead, shelter-in-place ends in Atikokan

The shelter-in-place advisory for the Atikokan area has been lifted after two suspects wanted in a fatal incident were located, Ontario Provincial Police said Friday. (File)

The shelter-in-place advisory for the Atikokan, Ont., area has been lifted after two suspects wanted in a fatal shooting were located, Ontario Provincial Police said Friday.

One of the suspects was found deceased, police said later in the day, while the second had been charged with second-degree murder.

The incident began the evening of March 4, following reports of gunshots in the Don Park area, and extended through all of March 5.

“Upon police arrival, one individual was located deceased,” police said in a news release.

No threat to the public

A 24-year-old from Atikokan has been charged with second-degree murder and remains in custody. Police haven’t said how one of the suspects died.

He is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Fort Frances on March 13.

An increased police presence can be expected as the investigation continues. We thank the public for their patience and support during this time.

Residents can resume their regular activities, police said, “as there is no longer believed to be a threat to public safety.”

“The Rainy River District OPP and the OPP North West Region Crime Unit are continuing the investigation under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner,” police said.

“A heavy police presence may remain in Atikokan as the on-scene investigation concludes. The OPP recognizes the concern and anxiety this incident may have caused.”

Anyone with information regarding the investigation is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online.