'I'm speechless': Family of Regina homicide victim in mourning

The family of a 22-year-old homicide victim in Regina is trying to come to terms with his death.

On Saturday night, Jesse Moneybirddied in hospital after being found downtown with life-threatening injuries.

Regina police say they are treating Moneybird's death as a homicide.

Moneybird's aunt RubyPeekeekoot, who lives near Prince Albert, Sask., heard the news from family in Regina.

"I'm speechless, it was such a shock for me to find out about the death of my nephew Jesse," she told CBC in an online message. "I broke down and, all I could do was to question myself, what the heck happened?"

According toPeekeekoot,Moneybirdwas hit in the head and was rushed to the hospital. Before he died, he lost brain function, she was told.

"I feel so hurt for the family...I'm sure hoping that the police find out who had done that to him," she said. "I will be going to Regina to support my family ASAP."

At 11:54 p.m. CST on Friday, police were dispatched to12thAvenue and Rose Street, where they found Moneybird.

On Saturday, the Regina Police Servicetaped off 12th Avenuebetween Rose and Albert Streets, as well as anImparkparking lot.

Theyare still investigating the incident, which they consider a homicide.

Anyone with information is being asked to call police at 306-777-6500 or Crime Stoppers on 1-800-222-8477.