Community Alert: Firearm Incident on Big River First Nation
RCMP Seek Public Help to Locate Man After Firearm Discharge
On the evening of April 20, 2026, officers from Big River RCMP responded to a report of a firearm being discharged on Big River First Nation in Saskatchewan. The incident occurred at approximately 6:15 p.m. outside a residence where an altercation between a man and a woman escalated to the use of a firearm.
During this confrontation, the man allegedly pointed a firearm at the woman and later fired it. Two nearby individuals intervened to help the woman. The male suspect then fled the area. Police report that the woman and the two people who assisted her did not report physical injuries, but the incident is being treated as a serious violent offence involving a weapon.
Ongoing Search for Suspect and Call for Community Assistance
Big River RCMP, supported by the Saskatchewan RCMP Critical Incident Response Team and Police Dog Services, conducted an extensive search of the surrounding area. A police dog and a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System were used to try to locate the suspect, but he has not yet been found.
In connection with this investigation, police have charged 24-year-old Blaine Keenatch, from Big River First Nation, and an arrest warrant has been issued. Investigators believe he may have been injured during the altercation and are urgently asking the public to help locate him so that his well-being can be confirmed and the arrest warrant can be executed safely.
Charges Laid Against Blaine Keenatch
The following charges have been laid in relation to this incident:
- One count of discharging a firearm with intent, Criminal Code Section 244
- One count of possessing a firearm while knowing possession is unauthorized, Criminal Code Section 92(1)
- Two counts of possessing weapons contrary to a court order, Criminal Code Section 117.01(1)
- One count of assault with a weapon, Criminal Code Section 267(1)
- One count of assault, Criminal Code Section 266
- One count of pointing a firearm, Criminal Code Section 87(1)
Suspect Description and Image
WANTED – PUBLIC ASSISTANCE REQUESTED: Police are asking residents in and around Big River First Nation, and the wider Big River region, to be on the lookout for Blaine Keenatch. Do not approach him under any circumstances.
He is described as:
- Height: approximately 5’11”
- Weight: approximately 180 lbs
- Eye colour: brown
- Hair: brown
- Distinctive features: lettering and numbers tattooed on both hands
How to Report Sightings or Information
CrimeCanada.ca is asking our community to assist the RCMP in locating this individual. If you see Blaine Keenatch or know where he may be, do not attempt to confront or detain him. Contact police immediately.
Please report any sightings or information directly to Big River RCMP by calling 310-RCMP (310-7267). You can also share information anonymously through Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
Big River RCMP have stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
CrimeCanada.ca Safety Perspective
Incidents involving firearms in residential areas, such as this one on Big River First Nation, pose significant risk not only to those directly involved but to nearby families and community members. Our mission at CrimeCanada.ca is to provide clear, timely information so residents can make informed safety decisions and support law enforcement through responsible reporting. For those living in or around Big River and neighbouring jurisdictions, reviewing local trends in violence and weapons-related offences through resources like our Big River, Saskatchewan crime statistics and safety data can help guide community planning, personal safety practices, and advocacy for prevention programs.
In any situation where a weapon may be involved, prioritize distance and safety. Move to a secure location, check on vulnerable neighbours (especially elders and children), and contact police rather than intervening directly. Reporting suspicious or escalating conflict early—before it turns violent—is one of the most effective ways communities can prevent harm and support safer outcomes for everyone.
Official Source & Community Safety
This safety alert is based on an official release from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). CrimeCanada.ca aggregates and analyzes this data to keep the saskatchewan community informed, aware, and safe. We are an independent safety data aggregator and not the original creators of the underlying incident report.
Read the full official release here: RCMP Official Statement.