Paragraph 1: The Initial Incident and Charges
On January 20th, 2025, Saskatoon police responded to a distress call at DSI Underground, located at the intersection of Millar Avenue and 70th Street. Upon arrival, they discovered 23-year-old Alfred Okyere suffering from multiple stab wounds. Okyere was immediately transported to a local hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries. This incident marked Saskatoon’s first homicide of 2025. Following a police investigation, 53-year-old Troy Leclair was apprehended and subsequently charged with first-degree murder in connection with Okyere’s death.
Paragraph 2: Court Proceedings and Adjournment
Leclair’s initial court appearance took place on Wednesday, where he participated via telephone. However, the proceedings were swiftly adjourned as Leclair transitioned from legal aid to private counsel. This delay caused significant frustration and disappointment among Okyere’s family and friends, many of whom had taken time off work to attend the hearing. Victor Yeke, President of the Ghana Canadian Association, expressed their surprise and dismay at the adjournment, emphasizing their desire for swift justice and closure.
Paragraph 3: Impact on the Ghanaian Community and Okyere’s Loved Ones
The sudden and violent death of Alfred Okyere, a recent immigrant from Ghana, deeply impacted the local Ghanaian community. Okyere had arrived in Saskatoon only four months prior to the incident, seeking educational opportunities and to be closer to his sister. His death shook the community, raising concerns about safety and belonging among other recent immigrants. Yeke articulated these fears, noting that many now question whether Saskatoon truly is a safe and welcoming home.
Paragraph 4: Community Vigil and Search for Answers
The day before the court appearance, a vigil was held in Okyere’s memory, drawing a large crowd of mourners. Yeke expressed gratitude for the police presence at the vigil, which provided a sense of security and support to the grieving community. While the vigil offered a space for collective mourning, many questions surrounding Okyere’s death remained unanswered. His family and friends continue to grapple with the loss and seek clarity on the circumstances that led to this tragic event.
Paragraph 5: Contextualizing Saskatoon’s Homicide Rate
Okyere’s death stands as the first recorded homicide in Saskatoon for 2025. This contrasts with the previous year, 2024, which saw a total of 15 homicides in the city. While the single incident does not necessarily indicate a trend, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of violence within the community. The comparison to the previous year’s statistics emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of violent crime and working towards a safer city for all residents.
Paragraph 6: Next Steps in the Legal Process and Ongoing Grief
The court case against Troy Leclair is scheduled to resume on February 3rd. The adjournment provides Leclair’s new legal team with time to prepare their defense, while Okyere’s loved ones must endure further waiting in their pursuit of justice. The delay prolongs their grief and prevents them from finding closure. The upcoming court date carries significant weight for both the accused and the victim’s family, marking a crucial step in the legal process and the ongoing search for answers in this tragic case.
