RCMP are turning to the public for information in regards to a Central Alberta house fire which reportedly killed three family members in December.

The remains of Gordon Klaus, 61 and his daughter Monica Klaus, 40, were found following a fire at the family residence near Castor.

Gordon’s wife, Sandra Klaus, 62, is also believed to have been killed in the fire, but police have said she has not been accounted for.

On Dec. 8 between 7:30 and 8 a.m., Coronation RCMP officers were dispatched to assist Castor and Coronation Fire Departments to a fully engulfed residence on Range Road 132 in the County of Paintearth, Alberta.

RCMP Major Crimes Unit investigators believe the fire was set intentionally. Although the cause and origin is still under investigation, police can share that on Dec. 13 the Calgary Medical Examiner’s office confirmed that the family dog that had been found deceased by first responders had suffered a fatal gunshot wound.

It is believed that the deaths of Gordon and Monica are as a result of a homicide and to date, Sandra has not been located. Investigation suggests that she was also the victim of a homicide. However, her remains have not been located.

On Dec. 11 a 2003 white GMC Sierra truck, associated to the Klaus farm, was located abandoned at the intersection of Hwy. 36 and Township Road 400, in the County of Paintearth. The police believe this vehicle was utilized by the person or persons responsible for the murders of Gordon and Monica to depart the Klaus property.

Red Deer Regional Search and Rescue and RCMP Police Dog Services conducted an extensive ground search where the white 2003 GMC Sierra truck was recovered.

Now, the RCMP are seeking the assistance of the public in calling tips as to the vehicle that has been recovered. They are asking if anyone was out and about in that area on the evening of Dec. 8 and remembers seeing the abandoned vehicle to

call the RCMP Calgary Major Crimes Unit at 403-699-2655 or Crime Stoppers.

efawcett@reddeerexpress.com