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We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of 20-year-old Nikolas Bear, a member of the Berens River First Nation residing here in Winnipeg.
Following a wellness check in the 400 block of Keenleyside Street on February 21, Winnipeg Police launched a homicide investigation that has resulted in two young men being charged with Manslaughter and Aggravated Sexual Assault. While these arrests have been made, the gravity of this loss is felt across our entire city.
As a community of businesses and neighbors, we stand in solidarity with the Berens River First Nation and Nikolas’s family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. We also want to thank the Winnipeg Police Homicide Unit for their swift action in this investigation.
If you have any information regarding this case (File C26-41621), we encourage you to reach out to the authorities via the contact information provided in the police report below.
The following is a post from the Winnipeg Police Service Facebook page:
“Two in custody regarding homicide investigation: C26-41621
On February 21, 2026, at 5:07 p.m., The Winnipeg Police Service responded to a wellbeing call at a residence in the 400 block of Keenleyside Street.
East District General Patrol officers attended and located an injured 20-year-old man in the residence. He was transported to hospital in critical condition and later succumbed to his injuries.
An 18-year-old man was arrested by officers at the scene. At 8:17 p.m., a 19-year-old man was arrested in the 500 block of St. Marys Road.
The Homicide Unit assumed the investigation.
The victim has been identified as 20-year-old Nikolas BEAR, a member of Berens River First Nation who had been residing in Winnipeg.
Augustine Owen BEAR (18) and Xaavier Xander FIDDLER (19) have been charged with Manslaughter and Aggravated Sexual Assault. Both were detained in custody.
Anyone with information can contact the Homicide Unit at 204-986-6508, or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 204-786-TIPS or winnipegcrimestoppers.org“
