Alberta man charged with first-degree-murder in Blairmore deaths

The RCMP has charged 22-year-old Derek James Saretzky of Blairmore with First Degree Murder in the homicides of Terry Blanchette and his daughter Hailey Dunbar-Blanchette.

Saretzky has been in police custody since yesterday when he was arrested as a suspect in the death of Mr. Blanchette and the disappearance of Hailey, whose body was found in a rural area near Blairmore yesterday afternoon.

Saretzky also faces one count of Indignity to a Body in relation to Hailey’s death.

He will remain in police custody pending his first court appearance at 9:30 AM on September 23rd in Lethbridge Provincial Court.

RCMP said in a media conference Wednesday morning that they were still investigating if Saretzky knew Hailey’s mother Cheyenne, but can confirm that he was acquainted with Terry.

Terry Blanchette and daughter Hailey Dunbar-Blanchette.

Anyone with information that might assist police in the investigation into these deaths is asked to call Crowsnest Pass RCMP at 403-562-2866.

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers with information at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).