The Lloydminster RCMP held a press conference on Jan. 20 to announce an arrest in the murders of Brent, Matthew, and Brennan Peters.
The father and two sons were murdered in their Lloydminster home in September 2024.
“Today, we are here to announce an individual has been arrested and charged with the murders of Brent, Matthew, and Brennan Peters. On Jan. 18, 2025, the Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit charged Nakota Rayne Pooyak, aged 31, of the North Battleford District, with three counts of second-degree murder,” said Insp. Dean Riou, OIC North Operations Officer, K Division Serious Crimes Branch.
“Mr. Pooyak appeared this morning in Saskatchewan Provincial Court via video from the Saskatoon Correctional Centre and was remanded into custody.”
He also provided details about the police response.
“On Sept. 11, 2024, around 5:50 p.m., Lloydminster RCMP responded to a well-being check at a residence near 50 Street and 47 Avenue. Inside, officers discovered Brent, Matthew, and Brennan Peters deceased with apparent gunshot wounds.”
The Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit took over the investigation while working alongside the Lloydminster RCMP. Authorities emphasize their commitment to uncovering the full circumstances of the murders and ensuring justice is served. The investigation has required extensive efforts, including meticulous analysis and cooperation with other RCMP units and local police agencies.
Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers commended the Alberta RCMP Serious Crimes Branch and Major Crimes Unit for their diligence in apprehending the suspect involved in the triple homicide.
“I would like to take this time to praise the RCMP for the diligent work in locating and apprehending the suspect in this tragic incident,” said Aalbers.
Acknowledging the community’s shock and concern, he stated, “As we wait for the judicial process to unfold, we hope the arrest brings some sense of resolution for those concerned about the community safety. The violent nature of the incident … was deeply shocking and unusual for our community.”
Despite the tragedy, the mayor emphasized Lloydminster’s resilience, assuring residents that this “isolated incident does not redefine us” and reaffirming the city’s commitment to being “a safe place to welcome and call home.”
They also stated that Pooyak had an accomplice during the incident. However, that individual has since died in a “non-criminal nature” and no details will be released about them.
When asked how they were certain there was no threat to public safety, Riou explained.
“On Sept. 16, so within five days of the incident happening, Mr. Pooyak was taken into custody on unrelated matters, which alleviated any public safety concerns we had in relation to him at that time.”
RCMP didn’t inform the public then as they were still putting the case against Pooyak together. They did not want to jeopardize the integrity of the judicial process in the future.
When pressed, Aalbers explained the city’s hands are somewhat tied in such situations when it comes to releasing information to calm the community.
“The words that were spoken by the RCMP and myself after this incident came to light, it was critical, and as much information was shared as possible,” said Aalbers. “I think that will always occur. It’s a matter of taking the time and seeing due process happen and unfold.”
Aalbers encouraged the community to follow along with the trial.
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