Two people were found dead in the McTavish Lake area north of La Ronge after authorities responded to a report of a suspected wildlife incident on July 15, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Community Safety said Thursday.
Investigation under way with multiple agencies
La Ronge RCMP attended the scene and located the deceased individuals. The ministry said the deaths are believed to be wildlife-related. The Conservation Officer Service’s Wildlife Human Attack Response Team has been deployed and is collaborating with the Coroner’s Service and RCMP as the inquiry continues.
“Conservation officers are working to identify and locate the animal(s) that may have been involved in the incident,” the ministry’s statement read.
No further details about the identities of the deceased, the precise circumstances, or the species involved have been released; the ministry says the investigation is in its early stages and that updates will be provided as information becomes available. Officials extended condolences to the family and loved ones affected by the incident.
What residents and visitors should know
Authorities asked residents, cottage owners and outdoor recreation users in the region to exercise caution when outdoors to reduce the risk of wildlife encounters. That advisory is consistent with standard safety guidance for northern Saskatchewan where people and wildlife share popular hunting, fishing and camping areas.
- Avoid approaching or feeding wildlife, even if animals appear habituated.
- Keep a safe distance from carcasses or animals that are injured or acting unusually; contact authorities instead of intervening.
- Make noise when moving through bush or trails to alert animals to human presence, particularly in low-visibility areas.
- Store attractants (food, garbage, coolers) securely and follow local guidance for food storage at campsites.
Local emergency responders and conservation officers will be the primary points of contact for reports of aggressive or injured wildlife. The ministry did not provide additional phone numbers or contact instructions in its release; residents seeking immediate assistance should contact local RCMP for emergency response.
Agencies involved in the response
| Agency | Role |
|---|---|
| La Ronge RCMP | Initial response, scene security, coroner coordination |
| Conservation Officer Service — Wildlife Human Attack Response Team | Investigating animal involvement, identifying and locating animal(s) |
| Coroner’s Service | Collaborating on cause-of-death determinations |
The ministry said it will provide further information as the investigation progresses. This incident underscores ongoing tensions between human activity and wildlife in northern Saskatchewan communities and recreation areas. Provincial officials advise extra vigilance for anyone planning to spend time outdoors in the La Ronge area until authorities release more details.
InfoRadar will continue to monitor updates from the Ministry of Community Safety, RCMP and the Conservation Officer Service and will report new developments as they are announced.
