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Suspect identified in Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation homicide

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The RCMP Serious Crime Branch is looking for the public’s help in tracking down a suspect believed to be involved in a homicide on Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation.

35-year-old Brandon Munro of no fixed address is wanted for the second degree murder of 28-year-old Isiah Cardinal a resident of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, whose body was found by police on June 22nd.

Munro is described as standing 5’8″, with multiple face tattoos, blue eyes, black hair. He was last wearing dark pants, a white shirt with hood, and a mask.

Munro was last seen on Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation and is considered armed and dangerous. Police are warning the public do not approach him and call Valeyview RCMP at 780-524-3345 or your local police. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

GPPSD announces new Superintendent of Schools

As of January 1st, James Robinson will be the new Superintendent of Schools and the CEO of the Grande Prairie Public School Division. 

The division’s Board of Trustees announced Robinson will replace Sandy McDonald, who plans to retire in the new year. Board Chair Joan Nellis says the board considered feedback from parents and staff about the characteristics they wanted to see in our next Superintendent, leading to James emerging as the leading candidate. 

“We are excited about the future of our division under his experienced and thoughtful leadership,” Nellis says. “James brings a valuable blend of continuity and fresh vision to the role—positioning him well to build on our strengths and help shape a bright future for our students, staff and school communities.”.

James has served as Assistant Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent since 2012, after spending 12 years in education with the Tlicho Community Services Agency in Behchoko, NT. 

According to the announcement his leadership in GPPSD has been instrumental in supporting the successful implementation of new curriculum and the development of system supports for optimum learning. He will apply his broad
experience and skills to the role and, together with his passion for education, will lead the division on its continued path to success.”

The University of New Brunswick and University of Calgary graduate says he is grateful for the opportunity to serve the students, staff and community of Grande Prairie in the new role. 

“Our division supports 9,000 students and their families to make our city and our region a better place and I look forward to working alongside our Board of Trustees, our division teams and our schools to continue this excellent work. It is a great honour to be able to continue to contribute to the success of our division in this new role,” James says. 

McDonald announced his retirement plan in December of last year, after eight years of being in the role. 

Volunteers needed as 2025 Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games

The 2025 Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games is just around the corner and the city is looking for a final push for volunteers to come help welcome athletes from across the province.

Volunteers are needed in a variety of roles, including Bocce Officials to ensure fair play and accurate scoring at Legion Field, as well as, medical support volunteers who will help provide first aid and participant monitoring at venues such as Bonnetts Energy Centre and five outdoor locations.

“We’re proud to support events that bring our community together and celebrate sport, resilience and inclusion,” says Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton.”

“Volunteers are the backbone of these games, and we’re encouraging residents to step forward and help create an unforgettable experience for our athletes.”

According to organizers, volunteers are also needed for things like food service as well, with a total of 450 four-hour volunteer shifts needing to be filled throughout the three day event.

The 2025 Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games run from July 11th to 13th, 2025. More information, including venues, sports and how to volunteer at the Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games website.

Tea time at Reverend Forbes Homestead

It’s tea time at Reverend Forbes Homestead over the next couple of months.

According to the City of Grande Prairie, the community is being invited to take part in the afternoon tradition at the heritage site. Through out July and August the heritage site will be hosting a 2 p.m. tea on select days.

Mayor Jackie Clayton this is a tradition the city is proud to continue.

“Events like this enhance our quality of life by offering meaningful experiences that celebrate our local history, foster a sense of belonging, and keep our community’s stories alive,” Clayton states. “We invite everyone to come explore the beautiful historic home and hospital of Dr. and Mrs. Forbes while enjoying an afternoon of tea and treats.”

Tea will be held on Wednesday’s and Thursday’s through out the summer. It costs $10 per person, including a large scone with jam, butter and choice of tea, coffee or juice.

More information can be found here.

Two charged after alleged string of Tim Hortons break-ins

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Two people are facing charges after a quartet of Tim Horton’s were broken into throughout the region.

Police say between February 21st and March 10th, four break and enters to Tim Hortons locations, one in Fox Creek, one in Valleyview, and two in Grande Prairie cost the businesses in excess of $30,000 in damages/loses. Authorities say the various investigations lead them to the identity of 2 out of 3 suspects, who were located and arrested.

A 28-year-old man and 40-year-old woman, both residents of Grande Prairie are both facing break and enter charges.

Grande Prairie RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in tracking down the third suspect connected to this break and enters, anyone with information is urged to call the detachment at 780-830-5700, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).RCMP(7267).

City warns of fake bus passes being sold online

The city is warning people against being taken in by fake transit superpasses being shared or sold on social media.

Officials are reminding everyone that only transit passes purchased directly from the City or through approved vendors are valid for use on Grande Prairie Transit. Anything knowingly obtained through unofficial channels are not accepted onboard.

If you do come across a suspicious post or offer that is not from an official City of Grande Prairie channel, you’re being encouraged to report it through the platform where it was found.

You can find actual transit superpasses, and other info about transit in the city here.

City creates new accessible pass for Canada Day event

A new pass is being included at this year’s Canada Day event in Muskoseepi Park to support those with physical or cognitive disabilities waiting in line for carnival rides.

According to City of Grande Prairie officials, the Accessibility Pass is being added to allow these individuals to go to the front-of-the-line carnival rides at the Canada Day event.

Mayor Jackie Clayton says the event is a time for the community to come together and celebrate the community and country.

“The new Accessibility Pass ensures everyone has the opportunity to fully participate in the festivities with comfort and ease. It’s one more way we’re building a city where everyone feels welcome, included and cared for,” Clayton says.

Those who are interested in registering for a free Accessibility Pass in advance by contacting AccessGP until June 30th at 6 p.m.

The Muskoseepi Park Canada Day event will run from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Find more Canada Day stories here.

County breaks ground on new Teepee Creek fire station

Ground has officially been broken on the new $4.5 million fire hall in Teepee Creek.

According to officials, the new three-bay fire hall will provide the necessary infrastructure to support modern training, emergency response, and equipment storage—while improving response times and expanding support to neighbouring communities such as Sexsmith, Bezanson, and Clairmont, as well as serve those in Teepee Creek.

County of Grande Prairie Reeve Bob Marshall says the project is all about building capacity for the future.

“This new station will give our firefighters the space, tools, and support they need to continue protecting the community and surrounding areas with a high level of professionalism and care,” he adds.

Construction on the new fire hall will be complete by the end of Summer 2026.

Several road closures set for Canada Day Parade

Drivers are being urged to avoid the downtown core for the majority of Canada Day as several road closures will be in place throughout the day with the annual parade set to roll through the city.

The day starts off with 100 Avenue shut down between 98 Street and 102 Street from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m., with 100 Avenue between 93 Street and 106 Street, 108 Avenue between 94 Street and 96 Street, 96 Street between 108 Avenue and 100 Avenue and 106 Street and Henry Anderson Drive between 100 Avenue and 107 Avenue also being closed between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

“The transportation adjustments on July 1 help create a safe, welcoming space for thousands of residents and visitors to enjoy the Canada Day parade,” said Director of Engineering & Transportation Services, Wade Nellis.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience and encourage travellers to plan ahead.”

The parade begins at 2 p.m., starting near Hillside School at 108 Avenue and 94 Street and will proceed down 100 Avenue to Northwestern Polytechnic’s Parking Lot B.

Drivers are encouraged to use 92 Street or 108 Street for north-south travel and 116 Avenue or 68 Avenue for east-west travel to avoid any delays.

Four injured after school bus involved rollover near Grimshaw

Four people were injured, including one seriously after a Peace River School Division bus was involved in a rollover earlier this month.

Officials say the bus was involved in a collision with a passenger vehicle on June 20th, which caused it to spin, roll over, and land on its side. At the time of the incident, one student and two adult passengers were on board, all three were treated for non-life threatening injuries.

The driver of the passenger vehicle was airlifted by STARS Air Ambulance and is reported to be in stable condition.

“While there were no life-threatening injuries sustained, we know that a multitude of small variables could have resulted in a significantly different outcome. The Division commends our driver for their calm and professional response as demonstrated through their execution of the Division’s emergency procedures,” says PRSD Communications Coordinator Kristen Dyck in a release.

“This incident serves as a critical reminder for all drivers to exercise extreme caution and reduce speed, especially during the hours when school buses are typically on the road. With the last day of school on June 26, the PRSD would like to emphasize the importance of abiding by road safety regulations to ensure everyone arrives home safely for the summer break.”

NWP draws up new graphic arts program

Northwestern Polytechnic has a new program they hope will draw in prospective students.

The post secondary says the curriculum on the new two-year Graphics Arts Diploma will be a blend of foundational design theory, digital media production, typography, branding, and user experience design, to prepare students for careers in areas like advertising, marketing, publishing, web design, and digital media.

NWP President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Sheane believes the program not only reflects what she calls the dedication of the school to provide in-demand programming, but dovetails with other programs already available.

“We recognize that the digital landscape is continuing to evolve, and NWP is doing our part by bringing disciplines together and equipping them for success,” she adds.

Dean of the School of Applied Science and Technology Dr. Julia Dutove says graphic design plays a vital role in how we connect and communicate in today’s digital age.

“This program prepares students with the tools and mindset to make a creative impact and pursue diverse design careers across multiple industries.”

When the program launches in Fall 2026, NWP will will join Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) as the only other post-secondary to carry the program.

City Hall to stay open late with tax deadline set for end of month

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The City of Grande Prairie is extending service hours ahead of the fast-approaching tax payment deadline at the end of the month.

City Hall hours will be extended for residents to make their tax payments in person at the City Hall front desk from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on June 26th, June 27th and June 30th.

Director of Assessment and Taxation for the City of Grande Prairie Scott Smith says the extension is critical for some residents as schedules can be busy during the summer months.

“We understand that many residents have busy schedules, and we hope that by staying open later, we can offer the flexibility needed to ensure everyone’s tax responsibilities are met on time,” he says.

The extended hours will only be in place for the Taxation Department and all other City Hall services will continue under regular hours.

Residents can make payments by cheque, cash, money order, debit, and bank drafts. Credit card payments will only be accepted online.

Any payments made after June 30th will be subject to a six per cent penalty.

AHS warns of possible measles exposure locations in Grande Prairie

A confirmed measles case has prompted an exposure warning in Grande Prairie.

AHS says if you were at the following locations during these times, you may have been exposed:

Shoppers Drug Mart Wapiti Centre
Exposure Time Period:
June 17, 2025: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.

New Horizon CO-OP Trader Ridge
Exposure Time Period:
June 22, 2025: 7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Anyone who was at these locations at those times, who was born in or after 1970 and has less than two documented doses of the measles vaccine may be at risk of developing the illness. Symptoms include a fever, a cough, a runny nose and/or red eyes and a rash that shows up three to seven days after the fever starts. The rash usually starts behind the ears and on the face, then spreads down to the body and to the arms and legs.

The Alberta government has also launched a measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 if you have any questions or concerns.

County downgrades fire restriction to advisory

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The fire restriction across the entire County of Grande Prairie, as well as the towns of Beaverlodge, Sexsmith and Wembley will been downgraded to a fire advisory as of 1 p.m. Tuesday.

County Fire Chief Trevor Grant says recent precipitation combined with cooler temperatures has helped reduce the overall wildfire risk, but urges people not to take the conditions as a sign that safety shouldn’t remain top of mind.

“Conditions can still be dry in some areas, and wildfires can easily start under the right circumstances, so we’re asking residents to use caution with any outdoor burning.”

Landowners and industry members are strongly encouraged to continue to inspect any previously burned piles from the winter to confirm they are fully extinguished. Burning is not allowed when winds reach, or are forecasted to reach, 12 kilometres per hour or higher.

Free, extended transit use on tap for Canada Day in Grande Prairie

While there will be some impacts on transit Canada Day, the city is hoping to make it as easy as possible to get around with free and extended travel for those looking to enjoy all things Canuck on July 1st.

On Canada Day, several transit routes will be unavailable from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., including Routes 3, 4, 6, 7 and 8, however, fixed-route buses will operate on the regular Sunday schedule from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

In addition to that, Night On-Demand Transit and accessible services will operate citywide between 6 p.m. and 1 a.m to allow riders to book trips between any designated stops in Grande Prairie during the evening and late-night hours, making it easy to enjoy festivities downtown and get home safely.

Trips can be booked until 12:30 a.m. for service up to 1 a.m. on July 1 here , the Grande Prairie My Ride app or by calling dispatch at 780-830-RIDE (7433).

City hoping the sky is the limit as it looks to expand regional connectivity

The city, working with the Grande Prairie Airport Commission is looking to enter into discussions with Edmonton International Airport to develop a strategic alliance that strengthens regional connectivity, enhances operations and unlocks new economic opportunities through the Grande Prairie Airport.

City council will first plan on putting together memorandum of understanding, which includes provisions such as the City remaining the sole owner of the Grande Prairie Airport. Mayor Jackie Clayton says the alliance supports Alberta’s vision to strengthen economic corridors by connecting communities, enhancing the movement of goods and people, and attracting new investment by expanding regional air service and logistics capacity.

“This is about looking ahead, not handing over,” says Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton.

“We want to ensure that the Grande Prairie Airport can grow in step with our city. By working with Edmonton International Airport, we can enhance our position in the provincial air network and build on the strong foundation we already have.”

One of the main hopes in the end is to see the expansion of air service options between GPA and YEG, identifying long-term commercial development opportunities, and enhancing operational efficiency.

Traffic signal switchover work on 100 Street, 97 Avenue wrapping up Tuesday evening

Crews will be finishing up traffic signal switchover work at the intersection of 97 Avenue and 100 Street on Tuesday, and that means the lights will be non-operational for a stretch on Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning.

The city says work begins at 8 p.m. and is expected to wrap up, weather permitting, by by 1 a.m., Wednesday. During the work, the intersection will function as a four-way stop with signage in place to guide drivers. Anyone living nearby may hear some louder than usual noise from the area as the switchover takes place.

Drivers are urged to proceed with caution and follow all posted signage in the area.

New farm equipment top of list for latest Grande Prairie lotto winner

A Grande Prairie man has his eye on some farm upgrades after scanning through a $100,000 win on Western Max.

Robert Bexson says when he checked his ticket from the April 29th draw in-store, he and the store’s clerk were shocked to see a cluster of zeroes appear on the scanner’s screen.

“I scanned the ticket and asked the retailer how much I’d won,” he says. “She said it had a lot of zeroes, and she wasn’t sure. [Another person in the store] came over and said, ‘That’s $100,000!’” he laughed.

Bexson says he was floored when he realized he had won that much, but said he has a couple purchases in mind.

“I’m going to buy some new farm equipment!”

Police investigate homicide on Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation

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Valleyview RCMP are investigating a homicide on Sturgeon Lake First Nation.

Police say they responded to a call just after 6 a.m. Sunday, June 22nd, and upon arrival, one person was located deceased. Early investigation leads police to believe that this is an isolated incident, but there will be a heavy police presence for the time being. People are being asked to avoid the immediate area and refrain from posting the actions of police on social media, for both public, and police safety.

Police urge residents toc remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or tips to the Valleyview RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Grande Prairie RCMP search for missing 40-year-old

The Grande Prairie RCMP is looking for the public’s help in tracking down a missing 40-year-old man.

Police say Bart Cybulski was last seen on June 19, 2025 in the M.D. of Greenview. Bart’s family is concerned for his well being.

Cybulski is described as standing approximately 5’11”, weighs roughly 210 lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with any information regarding the whereabouts of Bart, please contact the Grande Prairie RCMP Detachment at 780-830-5701.