MASKWACIS, Alta., Alberta RCMP have laid charges in a homicide that dates back nearly two decades on the Samson Cree Nation, following what police describe as a community-driven breakthrough in the long-running investigation.
The Alberta RCMP Historical Homicide Unit, working with Maskwacis RCMP, said a suspect was arrested in connection with the killing of 24-year-old Johnathan “Cody” Saddleback, a Maskwacis resident who was killed in February 2007. The community was known at the time as Hobbema.
Police said 42-year-old Alvin Lee Norman Green of Maskwacis was arrested without incident on Jan. 20, 2026. He has been charged with second-degree murder.
Green was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody. He is scheduled to make his first appearance in Alberta Court of Justice in Wetaskiwin on Jan. 22. Police said no further details will be released to protect the integrity of the court process.
RCMP said the case remained active for years as investigators and community members continued to seek answers. While many historical homicide cases are resolved through advances in forensic science, police said this arrest resulted from traditional investigative work supported by community cooperation.
Maskwacis RCMP Insp. Richard McKay said the case highlights the importance of community trust and participation in resolving historical files and the lasting impact such cases have on families and the wider community.
Samson Cree Nation Chief Vernon Saddleback said the arrest reflects the role of collective action in healing and bringing closure to families who have lived with unanswered questions for many years.
Alberta RCMP Serious Crimes Branch Insp. Breanne Brown said the Historical Homicide Unit remains committed to pursuing justice regardless of how much time has passed.
RCMP said they continue to work with Crown prosecutors as the case moves through the courts. Anyone with information related to this investigation or other unsolved homicides is asked to contact the Alberta RCMP Historical Homicide Unit.
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