Medicine Hat woman pleads not guilty to first-degree murder

By James Tubb on April 26, 2022.

Delon Shurtz

Southern Alberta Newspapers

A 26-year-old Medicine Hat woman accused of killing another woman during an altercation late last year, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of first-degree murder.

Melissa Martens-Lagasse entered the plea Monday in Lethbridge Court of Queen’s Bench, where she also pled not guilty to one count of causing an indignity to a human body.

Calgary lawyer John Oman confirmed his client previously elected to be tried by Queen’s Bench judge and jury, without a preliminary hearing, and the matter was adjourned to June 13 to allow more time for the Crown and defence to continue discussing the case before setting a trial date.

Martens-Lagasse, who remains in remand custody but appeared in court in person with her lawyer, is accused of killing Megan Eekma, 34, of southern Alberta.

Police reported that on Nov. 19, 2021 the victim was travelling with another person to Alberta from British Columbia, and during the trip an “interaction” occurred near Pincher Creek resulting in Eekma’s death.

Police said as a result of their investigation and tips from the public, a suspect was identified, and on Nov. 22 the Alberta major crimes unit arrested and charged Martens-Lagasse.

9
-8