RCMP Major Crimes Investigating Homicide in Saddle Lake

42-year-old Frog Lake resident identified as victim

Alberta RCMP’s Major Crimes Unit (MCU) is investigating a homicide following the discovery of a body along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River in the Saddle Lake area earlier this month.

On October 8, 2025, St. Paul RCMP were called to the scene after a body was located near the west end of Southwest Six on Saddle Lake Cree Nation. Officers determined the circumstances appeared suspicious and brought in the Major Crimes Unit to lead the investigation.

The victim has been identified as 42-year-old Byron Crane of Frog Lake, Alberta. An autopsy conducted on October 10 at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Edmonton confirmed the death was a homicide.

RCMP are now seeking public assistance to help trace Crane’s movements and identify anyone who may have information related to the case. Investigators are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who was in the Saddle Lake area prior to October 8 or who may have seen or spoken with Crane after September 28, the last date he was seen alive.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the St. Paul RCMP at 780-645-8888. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477, online at www.P3Tips.com, or through the P3 Tips app available on Apple and Google Play.

The investigation remains ongoing.