First-degree murder charges have been laid in connection to a suspicious death on Ditidaht First Nations near Lake Cowichan on Saturday morning.
On Saturday, September 28th, just before 7 a.m., Lake Cowichan RCMP were called to a residence on Ditidaht First Nations.
Upon arrival, police located a deceased man.
Police support units were called to assist, including the Emergency Response Team (ERT) who took a man into custody without incident.
“Police believe this to be an isolated incident and do not feel there is any further risk to the general public,” RCMP said in a statement on Saturday afternoon.
Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit (VIIMCU) took conduct of the investigation.
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RCMP have identified the suspect as Derian Tate, who was scheduled to next appear in court on October 8th. He has since been charged with first-degree murder.
Canada’s Criminal Code defines first-degree murder as a murder that is planned and deliberate.
On Saturday, the Ditidaht First Nation had asked its residents to stay indoors with windows closed and locked while police were on the scene.
In a subsequent update at around 2:30 p.m., the Nation announced that the RCMP had the situation “under control,” although officers would remain in the community for the next several days.
In a statement, the Ditidaht First Nation expressed its condolences, noting that community health support services will be available in the coming days, including resources from the First Nations Health Authority, a spiritual support person, and a counsellor.
“Food is being brought to the community hall this evening for those who wish to sit together, please join us,” said the Nation on Saturday afternoon, adding that dinners would be arranged for the next few days as well.
The Nation emphasized its respect for the families involved and chose not to release any names on Saturday. “The families of those involved are asking for gentleness and kindness as we seek the truth, together as one,” said the statement. “We encourage everyone to be with one another for support during this time. Thank you for understanding.”
RCMP said no further information would be released as the investigation remains ongoing.
