The Regina Police Service’s (RPS) cold case unit says a 1996 death in an alley in central Regina is now considered a homicide – after being deemed “accidental” for the past 29 years.

On April 21, 1996, a 22-year-old woman, Muriel Roxanne Demorest, was found dead in an alley on the 1200 block of King Street. Police determined she was fatally injured while changing a tire on a vehicle.

Over the years, the police service says it has received new statements – leading investigators to review the file.

On March 27, 2025, RPS and the Saskatchewan Coroners Service deemed Demorest’s death a homicide.

With those findings, the service said it had “reasonable and probable grounds” to believe a suspect intentionally caused Demorest’s death.

However, the suspect cannot be charged with murder due to his own recent death. According to the service, his identity will not be disclosed as he is unable to be formally charged.

With the revelation, the investigation has officially concluded after 29 years.

“The unwavering dedication of our investigators reflects our commitment to accountability and building trust with the community we serve,” acting RPS Chief Lorilee Davies said in the update.

“We want the public to know that we will never stop pursuing answers.”