Winnipeg police have released photos of a person of interest after two men were "brutally killed" in the city's downtown area, likely at the hands of the same person.
Winnipeg police say the man in this photo is a person of interest after two homeless people were 'brutally killed' in downtown Winnipeg Saturday. (Winnipeg Police Service)
The man was wearing an over-the-shoulder bag with green detailing. (Winnipeg Police Service)
The body of a man in his 60s was found in the alley behind 329 Hargrave St. early Saturday at 12:45 a.m.
The body of another man in his 40s was found close by at 6:30 p.m. in the alley behind 333 Portage Ave.
One of the victims was homeless, while police said the other spent a lot of time on the streets. Investigators believe both deaths are related and that one suspect is responsible.
Winnipeg police released the photos early Sunday afternoon.
"This male is in the area during the times of the homicides and he may have had contact with the victims and he could have very valuable information for us," said Sgt. John O'Donovan.
"There are a number of vulnerable persons on the streets of Winnipeg. When you're out and about, please pay particular attention to these people. They're often invisible, but make sure that they're safe and they're not being harassed by anybody."
O'Donovan added police are also looking for two other people, a man and a woman, who were in the Hargrave Street area between 9:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. Friday night. None of the persons of interest are considered suspects at this time.
Police ask everyone who is homeless or spends time on the street to be careful, stay away from secluded areas and stick with others if possible.
"Please, people of Winnipeg, if you're out and about and you see something that doesn't sit right with you, call the police. Use your cell phone. If it's safe to do so ... take photos and get them to us. We will follow up on every lead," said O'Donovan.
"These vulnerable people are part of our community and it's all our responsibility to keep them safe."
Anyone who may know about these deaths is asked to call Winnipeg's homicide unit at (204) 986-6508 or Crime Stoppers at (204) 786-TIPS (8477).
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