RCMP seek black sedan in connection with Dieppe double homicide investigation

The RCMP are seeking the public's help in locating a car in connection with an investigation into the homicides of an elderly couple in Dieppe more than two months ago.

The bodies of Bernard Saulnier, 78, and his wife, Rose-Marie Saulnier, 74, were found in their bungalow on Amirault Street on Sept. 7 around noon.

No details about the causes of death or possible weapons involved have been released, but police do not believe the killings were random, "just based on the investigation and information that we have," Cpl. Jullie Rogers-Marsh said on Tuesday, declining to elaborate.

Investigators are now looking for any information regarding a black, four-door sedan with tinted windows and black rims that may have been in the area during the overnight hours of Sept. 6 into Sept. 7, said Rogers-Marsh.

Anyone with information about the vehicle or its driver, or who may have seen the vehicle in the area on the dates in question, is asked to contact the major crime unit at 506-851-7281 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Rogers-Marsh declined to say how police became aware of the black sedan, whether it was through tips from the public, interviews with witnesses, from security video or other means.

"That would be information we received through the course of the investigation," she said.

RCMP have said little about the case, other than describing the investigation as "very complex."

They didn't disclose the identities of the victims until Tuesday, long after a relative confirmed to CBC News that it was the Saulniers who were killed.

"We are releasing the names of the victims to try and assist us with our investigation," said Rogers-Marsh. "We know there are people who know what happened to the victims or who may have information that could assist investigators in bringing those responsible to justice."

She declined to say if police have any suspects, but no charges have been laid.

"Certainly I can appreciate that this has been a disturbing incident for many people in the area, and we want to keep the community as informed as we can without jeopardizing the ongoing investigation," she said.

"We're certainly continuing to work diligently to determine exactly what happened and who is responsible."

Fair Haven Funeral Home
Fair Haven Funeral Home

No details about the crime scene have been released.

Officers remained on site for several days, gathering evidence.

The Saulnier homicides shocked residents in the quiet neighbourhood and left many feeling uneasy.

Bernard was a "very generous person in helping various people in career choices and business success," while Rose-Marie, a nutritionist affectionately known as Big Mama, "always saw the best in people," according to their obituaries.

The couple is survived by their sons Luc (Diane Thibeault) and Sylvio and several extended family members.