Winnipeg family looking for answers after death of Dustin McKay

The family of Dustin McKay is still reeling after the 22-year-old became Winnipeg’s first homicide victim of 2015.

McKay was killed Friday night around 11 p.m. in the area of Pacific Avenue and Isabel Street and his family is looking for answers.

“He was a very fun-loving guy and he was known and loved by a lot of his family and friends,” said Derek Letander, McKay’s uncle. “What could have sparked this kind of event, we don’t know — that's what's really disheartening and breaking for us.”

Letander, who saw his nephew for the last time days before the incident, said police told him his nephew was at a store on Isabel Street when he got into a fight. It is believed McKay was knocked unconscious and then dragged on to the street.

“We don’t know if he was run over by whoever he was in an altercation with or whether just by someone that was driving by,” said Letander.

Policed arrived at the scene around 11:20 p.m. McKay was taken to hospital in critical condition, where he later died of his injuries.

As of Sunday night, Winnipeg police hadn’t made any arrests in connection with McKay’s death.

McKay was closest with his mother and four brothers, all of whom are devastated by his death. He lost his father in a tragic fishing accident in 2001.

While McKay had spent time in jail in the past, Letander maintained his nephew was a good person, wasn’t involved in gangs and had plans of pursuing a trade.

“He wanted to finish his school, get a trade, make a living and do the best with his life that he could,” said Letander.

McKay’s family is currently making funeral arrangements. Members of the family said they were thankful for everyone who has reached out and sent their condolences in the wake of McKay’s death.

Letander said the family is pulling together and relying on each other for support.

“They just can’t believe this right now,” said Letander. “It’s like a dream they can’t wake up from.”

Anyone with information in regards to the death of Dustin McKay is asked to call police at 204-986-6508.