RCMP arrest suspect in Mackenzie, B.C., homicide

Police have arrested a manfollowinga homicidein a small northern B.C. community last Sunday.

Drake MatthewKerr is charged with second-degree murder in the killing of a man found deadin Mackenzie, B.C. The community of around 3,700 peopleis located about 150 kilometres north of Prince George.

The RCMP's North District Major Crime Unitissueda warrant for Kerr's arrest last week, after gunshots were reported early Sept. 29 neara home in the100-block of Centennial Drive, where a man's body was later found by officers.

The B.C. Prosecution Service approved a charge of second-degree murder against Kerr on Tuesday, RCMP Corp. Madonna Saunderson said at the time.

In an update providedSaturday, RCMP Const. Brett Urano said Kerr had been arrested on Friday by Mackenzie RCMP, and is now in custody pending a court appearance.

"Kerr is in custody because of the hard work our officers and the public's assistance in locating this man wanted for violent offences," he said.

In 2022, Kerr was accused of possessing a firearm without a licence or registration, uttering threats, pointing a firearm and careless use of a firearm, court documents show.

He is scheduled to appear at a court hearing related to these allegationson Oct. 17.

According to Saunderson, the major crimes unit is investigating the Mackenzie, B.C., death alongside local RCMPand the B.C. Coroners Service.

Police believe there is no risk to the publicand say the death appears to be an isolated incident.

They askanyone who may haveinformation or surveillance footagefrom the area around the hometo contact Mackenzie RCMP at250-997-3288.