May 19, 2021 Media Release

Homicide – Investigation: C21-112783

On May 19, 2021, at 2:07 a.m., emergency personnel responded to the 400 block of Beverley Street after a severely injured male had been found outside of a residence.

Upon arrival, officers began providing emergency first aid to the male. He was subsequently transported to hospital in critical condition but succumbed to his injuries.

The victim has been identified as Derek Scott Sutton, a 37-year-old male of Winnipeg.

This investigation is continuing by members of the Homicide Unit. Anyone with information that may assist investigators is asked to call the Homicide Unit 204-986-6508 or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS (8477).

Community Exploitation Initiative

In conjunction with the Indigenous Women and Girls Safety Strategy, the Winnipeg Police Service’s Counter Exploitation Unit continues to perform outreach and proactive offender sweeps in the community.

In response to several recent reports of youth being propositioned in local neighbourhoods and online, the Counter Exploitation unit conducted a proactive offender sweep.

On May 14, 2021, five men, 21-52 years of age, were arrested for Obtaining Sexual Services for Consideration. In addition, four vehicles were seized under the Highway Traffic Act.

Several adult males were cautioned for frequenting areas in the city that are known for sexual exploitation. These men were provided with information through the Salvation Army’s Reality Check Program. This program is available in a variety of languages to assist in educating citizens on sexual exploitation.

Everyone has a role to play in promoting safety for all. If you have information regarding exploitation issues in your community, please contact the Counter Exploitation Unit at 204-986-3464 or in case of emergency, call 911. 

Traffic Pursuit – Arrest: C21-112605

On May 18, 2021, at approximately 9:00 p.m., West District officers responded to reports of a vehicle driving erratically in the St. James neighbourhood. Callers reported the vehicle was driving through red lights and into oncoming traffic, narrowly missing other traffic and pedestrians. 

When police arrived in the area, they observed the suspect vehicle driving dangerously but initially did not pursue it out of concern for public safety in a residential neighbourhood. 

Over the next two hours, officers attempted to stop the fleeing vehicle by utilizing police containment and a tire deflation device; however, the driver refused to stop. 

At approximately 11:00 p.m., the vehicle finally stopped in the 2700 block of Ness Avenue and was determined to be stolen. The driver, the lone occupant, was taken into custody. 

A 32-year-old male of Headingley is facing charges of:
- Theft of Motor Vehicle
- Flight While Pursued by a Peace Officer
- Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance

He has been released on an Appearance Notice (as mandated by the Criminal Code).