Two Arrested in Double Homicide at Victoria Beach; Charges Filed

BREAKING: Two men have been arrested and charged with second-degree murder following a shocking double homicide in the Rural Municipality of Victoria Beach that left a man and a woman dead. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed the arrests during a news conference on October 7, 2023, just days after a lengthy investigation into the tragic events of June 20, 2023.

The victims, Melissa Julie Wilson, 41, and Sly Thibert, 29, were targeted in a shooting at a residence near Sandy Bay, located north of Victoria Beach. Authorities believe Thibert was the intended target while Wilson was tragically killed for simply being at the wrong place at the wrong time.

RCMP Staff Sgt. Sean Grunewald stated, “At this time, we believe the male victim was targeted by the suspects, and that the female was killed for being at that specific residence in Victoria Beach when the suspects arrived.”

The suspects, identified as Mitchell Johanson, 28, from Grand Marais, and Nathaniel More-Harrison, 31, from the Rural Municipality of St. Clements, were apprehended after extensive tracking by police. Johanson was arrested in Abbotsford, B.C., while More-Harrison was taken into custody in New Minas, N.S.. Both men are now en route back to Manitoba to face court proceedings.

Following the incident, RCMP began monitoring both suspects, who were reportedly acquainted with the victims, all residing in the Victoria Beach area, approximately 100 kilometers north of Winnipeg. Though police have not disclosed the exact motive, family members of Thibert indicated to local media that the dispute may have been related to a dirt bike.

Grunewald urged the community for assistance, saying, “Now is the time to come forward and share with us what you know. These homicides have deeply affected two grieving families and countless loved ones, and created concern for so many residents in the Victoria Beach area.”

Court documents reveal Johanson has a history of weapon offenses and impaired driving, while More-Harrison was previously convicted of robbery with a weapon. The family of Wilson is grappling with profound loss, expressing their grief and desire for justice.

Kerby Friesen, Wilson’s father, stated, “I want justice for our daughter. I want justice for us. I want justice for her children and grandchildren.” He emphasized the importance of thorough investigations, wanting accurate evidence before any conclusions are drawn.

Wilson, a mother of four and grandmother to three, was admired for her resourcefulness and creativity. Known as a dedicated school bus driver, she was affectionately referred to as the “cool school bus driver” in her community. Her family described her as deeply compassionate and talented, with a passion for art and the outdoors, often cherishing her childhood memories at Victoria Beach.

The community is left reeling from the impact of these tragic events, with the Friesen family calling for support and understanding as they navigate this challenging time. As the investigation continues, the urgency for information from the public remains critical.

Authorities are appealing to locals in Victoria Beach and Traverse Bay to provide any information that could assist in the ongoing investigation. The RCMP’s relentless pursuit for justice underscores the seriousness of this case and the need for community involvement.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.