First Degree Murder Charges Laid in Double Homicide

Always Local, Always Free

Arrest

First Degree Murder Charges Laid in Double Homicide

April 25, 2024

Following a two-and-a-half-year investigation, officers with the Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Services have arrested and charged a 22-year-old man with two counts of first degree murder

The deaths were discovered on September 9, 2021.

First responders had been called to a house fire in Northlands Denesuline First Nation. Upon examination of the scene, officers discovered the remains of Brent Denechezhe, 31, and Leona Tssessaze, 24.

Brent Denechezh (submitted | Manitoba RCMP)

Leona Tssessaze (Submitted | Manitoba RCMP)

Autopsies confirmed the victims died as a result of injuries caused by the firearm.

Investigators believe the victims and the suspect were together at Denechezhe’s home on the evening of the fire.

They think the suspect left the residence after a disagreement and later returned with a firearm. It’s believed the murders occurred upon this return visit, that the suspect left again, and returned moments later. The house was then seen engulfed in flames.

On April 22, 2024, officers with Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Services attended to Fond du Lac, Saskatchewan, where they arrested Leon Paul Mercredi.

22-year-old Mercredi is now charged with two counts of first degree murder in these deaths..

Police say Mercredi is originally from Northlands Denesuline First Nation, but left the community shortly after the homicides occurred.

He has been transported to Winnipeg, where he remains in custody.

While investigators do not believe anyone else was involved in the shooting, they are continuing to ask anyone with knowledge of what happened to call the tipline at 431-489-8112.

The RCMP noted the strength and courage of the mothers of the deceased; the assistance of the people of Northlands Denesuline First Nation; and the tenacity and dedication of our investigators in leading to the charges.

“While we have been able to provide some answers to Leona and Brent’s families, we cannot take away their immense loss. Our condolences go out to the families and the community, and we hope the arrest of a suspect helps them on their healing journey,” said Superintendent Rob Lasson, officer in charge of Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Services.

While investigators say they do not believe anyone else was involved in the shooting, they are continuing to ask anyone with knowledge of what happened to call the tipline at 431-489-8112.