A letter from the United States Department of Justice is touting a Saskatchewan laboratory for assisting with a homicide investigation south of the border.
The Saskatchewan Ballistics Laboratory, which opened a temporary location in May 2024 at the Saskatoon Police Service headquarters, is being praised for its rapid forensics analysis of a firearm recovered in the province after it was discovered to be linked to a homicide in Atlanta, Ga.
The letter, shared by Premier Scott Moe on X, says that the discovery proves the laboratory is a significant and commendable step towards enhancing public safety within Saskatchewan and those in the United States.
“At a time when both Canada and the U.S. face escalating challenges from illicit firearms and cross-border crime, the lab’s rapid forensics analysis has proven a decisive tool,” the letter says.
According to the province, the laboratory houses a variety of forensics ballistics equipment, including a BRASSTRAX acquisition station. The province said the station assists in the tracking of specific firearms that have been used in a crime.
The U.S. Department of Justice’s letter said the BRASSTRAX acquisition station demonstrates, “a commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology in the pursuit of justice, and to international cooperation.”
On X, Moe said it’s another example of how Canada and the United States are stronger when they work together, as he continues to advocate against incoming tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump. Moe has remained adamant that the two nations collaborating with continued free trade is much more effective in generating economic success for both countries than tariffs would be.
Here is a letter commending the SK Firearms Office for the establishment of the SK Ballistics Lab and its role in enhancing border security and assisting in the investigation of a homicide in Atlanta.
— Scott Moe (@PremierScottMoe) February 28, 2025
Both Canada and the US are stronger and more secure when we work together. pic.twitter.com/x6Tdi73X3h
The province said before the ballistics laboratory opened, police services in Saskatchewan relied only on the RCMP National Forensic Laboratory Services that has locations in Ottawa and Surrey, B.C. dedicated to technical firearms lab analysis.
Construction for a permanent ballistics lab location is underway in Saskatoon and is expected to be completed in the spring of 2025.
