Update 2: RCMP appeal for witnesses to early morning homicide in downtown Whitehorse

February 4, 2023
Whitehorse, Yukon

News release

February 4, 2023 – The Whitehorse RCMP can now confirm the incident which occurred during the early morning hours of February 2, 2023 in the vicinity of 4th Avenue and Ogilvie Street of Whitehorse is being investigated as a homicide.

At approximately 5:20 am, a 911 call was received that a person was laying on the ground. Police immediately attended and located the injured person and began life saving efforts. Yukon EMS transported the injured person to the hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

RCMP performed continual risk assessment that showed no risk to the public or schools in the area. A nearby school was contacted to give notice of the police activity in the area. The scene was released at approximately 1pm which allowed normal traffic to resume.

The Yukon RCMP Major Crime Unit, with the assistance of the Yukon Chief Coroner, are leading the investigation.

The victim has been identified as 35-year-old Aaron Smarch of Carcross. At this time, the RCMP Major Crime Unit is seeking anyone who may have had contact with, or is aware of the whereabouts of Aaron Smarch between 1am and 5:20am on February 2, 2023. Investigators are also seeking anyone with information, or who may have seen suspicious activity around the vicinity of 4th Avenue and Ogilvie Street, and the neighborhoods and businesses located in downtown Whitehorse between the hours of 3am to 7am on February 2, 2023.

The Yukon RCMP extends their condolences to the family and friends of Aaron Smarch. Appreciation is extended to the residents and businesses of downtown while we are conducting our investigation and the supporting agencies who are assisting in this effort.

Anyone with information regarding this incident or who has information that could help further this investigation is asked to contact the Whitehorse RCMP Major Crime Unit at 867-667-5551.

–30–

Contact information

Yukon RCMP
867-667-5551

File number: 2023148856

Date modified: