Skip to content

Post-mortem expected today in Denise Street deaths

On Monday afternoon, a press conference was held at TPS headquarters to provide an update on the recent suspicious deaths in Timmins.

On Monday afternoon, a press conference was held at TPS headquarters to provide an update on the recent suspicious deaths in Timmins.

Kate Cantin, Corporate Communications Coordinator with Timmins Police Service spoke first, and announced a development.

“As you are aware, the Timmins Police Service is currently investigating two suspicious deaths. Police believe there is a connection between the two individuals located deceased inside a residence on Denise Street, and the fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred on Friday, May 1 on Algonquin Boulevard East,” she said.

Cantin could not delve into many details.

“The investigation is still considered to be in its early stages, so information is limited at this time.”

Chief John Gauthier explained that TPS officers were in the process of notifying next of kin of the man who perished after his van plunged into Little Pearl Lake in Schumacher, when they found two deceased individuals at a home on Denise Street.

“At this point, I can tell you that this is a suspicious death investigation. Investigators with the Timmins Police Services Criminal Investigation section, as well as the Forensic Identification Unit remain on scene on Denise Street at this time. Forensic officers are processing the scene, which could take several days. The investigation is ongoing, with experienced officers working to gather more information” he said.

Gauthier assured the public that police believe the two incidents are isolated and that there is no concern for public safety.

The individual involved in the fatal collision on May 1 has been positively identified as Richard Gagnon, 23, of Timmins. 

“The identities of the individuals located in the residence have yet to be confirmed, pending post-mortem examinations to be conducted in Sudbury, on Tuesday May 5,” said Gauthier.

“This is a significant investigation. It follows the Major Case Management model. As I’m sure the media and public can understand, the release of information is sensitive to the investigation, and takes time. I can assure you, information will be provided as it becomes available.”

Gauthier was reluctant to answer questions from reporters.

“We will not answer any questions that may compromise the status of the investigation” he said.

Cantin said that any information on the matter that has not been released by the TPS is strictly ‘speculation’.

Timmins Police Service is hoping to have positive identifications of the Denise Street victims by Wednesday.

Previous TimminsToday coverage of this story:

Police identify victim, say three deaths appear linked (update)

(PHOTO: Police spokesperson Kate Cantin speaks during a press conference on Tuesday. Andrew Autio for TimminsToday)