Saskatoon Police received a 911 call regarding an injured person at a business in the 1000 block of 8th Street East on October 4th at approximately 7:20am.
Police arrived to find an injured and unresponsive 22-year-old, Brandon Applegate lying in the roadway at the intersection of Clarence Avenue South and 8th Street East. Applegate was rushed to the hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Police are asking anyone with information regarding this incident to call the Saskatoon Police Service at 306-975-8300 and ask to speak to an investigator in Major Crimes or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Update October 8th
Saskatoon police have issued a warrant for the arrest of Justin Troy Ballantyne, 30. Ballantyne is wanted for second-degree murder in relation to the death of Brandon Applegate. Ballantyne is described as 6’1″ tall and weighs 157 lbs. He is believed to be armed and should not be approached.
Update October 14th
Justin Troy Ballantyne was arrested by Saskatoon Police Service, Guns and Gangs Unit at a residence in the 200 block of Avenue L South. Investigators believe this incident was not random and that the accused was known to the victim.
Update March 7th 2023
Justin Ballantyne, 32, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison with parole eligibility in nine years minus time served.