Big River RCMP are actively searching for 51-year-old Cole Hegland. (Submitted photo/RCMP)

By paNOW Staff

wanted

One man arrested, another on the run in Big River assault case

Apr 17, 2025 | 3:02 PM

Two men wanted in connection to an assault with a weapon in Big River have been identified.

Big River RCMP have charged 45-year-old Otis Watier of Lashburn with one count each of break-and-enter, aggravated assault and uttering threats. Watier was arrested in Lloydminster early Thursday.

Meanwhile, police are still searching for 51-year-old Cole Hegland of Big River, who is facing charges of break-and-enter and aggravated assault. Police said a distinguishing feature of Hegland is a skull tattoo on his left and right shoulders.

The charges Hegland and Watier face are in connection to an incident that occurred at a home in Big River on April 11.

Police were called for a serious assault, and their investigation determined two men had entered the home and assaulted a man inside with a weapon. The victim was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Officers located and seized various weapons at the residence, but were unable to immediately locate the two suspects.

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Police said anyone who sees Hegland should not approach him. Instead, those with information on his whereabouts should call Big River RCMP at 310-RCMP or submit information anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com