By Kayla Bruch

Man faces 2nd-degree murder charge in homicide

Jan 29, 2015 | 2:12 PM

A Prince Albert man has been arrested in connection with the homicide of 28-year-old Monica Lee Burns.

On Wednesday afternoon, the RCMP arrested Todd Daniel McKeaveney, 38, in connection with Burns’ death. And on Thursday, he was charged with one count of second-degree murder.

Pernell Ballantyne, Burns oldest brother, said he heard about the arrest from his sister Michelle. 

“I was so relieved and well I started crying, you know, tears of joy, kind of,” he said. “I didn’t expect it to happen so soon but im glad it’s done. My sister got justice.”

The RCMP believe the suspect and Burns didn’t know each other and McKeaveney isn’t known to police. Ballantyne also said he has never heard of the man in question. 

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McKeaveney will make his first court appearance on Jan. 30 at 10:00 a.m. in Prince Albert Provincial Court. Ballantyne said he will probably attend the court date. 

“Let there be justice,” he said. 

Investigators involved with the Burns file said the support from the family, public and the Prince Albert police were greatly appreciated.

“Monica’s family has demonstrated an unbelievable level of cooperation and understanding throughout the investigation and their support of the investigators has been nothing short of amazing,” said RCMP in a written statement.

“I just did my journey and they [the RCMP] did theirs so I think everybody’s happy,” said Ballantyne. 

An autopsy of Burns’ remains was completed on Jan. 20 and the results have not been revealed.

Currently, the police and RCMP are looking for any leads involving two large black area rugs/carpets, which were found by Burns body.

On Jan. 17, Prince Albert RCMP received a call after a body was found on a snowmobile trail 15 kilometres Northwest of Prince Albert, in the RM of Buckland. Investigation revealed, the body was Burns.

If you have information you’re encouraged to call the Prince Albert RCMP at 306-765-5500 or Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), through SaskTel at *8477, or submit a tip online.

kbruch@panow.com

On Twitter: @KaylaBruch1