Coronation, Alberta – On August 15, 2014, RCMP Calgary Major Crimes Unit arrested 29-year-old, Joshua Gregory FRANK and 38-year-old, Jason KLAUS for the murders of Gordon, Sandra and Monica Klaus. Both men from Castor, Alberta, were arrested without incident and charged with three counts of 1st degree murder as well as one count of arson in this matter. Jason KLAUS and Joshua FRANK were remanded in custody to attend the Red Deer Provincial Court on August 18, 2014.
These arrests come after an extensive investigation into the deaths of Gordon, Sandra and Monica Klaus which occurred near Castor, Alberta, on December 8, 2013.
The remains of Gordon Klaus, 61 years-old and his daughter, Monica Klaus, 40-years old at the time, had been located in the remnants of the burned home. Sandra Klaus, 62-years-old at the time, was not located however investigation indicates that she was in the house at the time of the fire.
The remains of Monica and Gordon Klaus were examined on December 13, 2013, at the Calgary Medical Examiner’s Office and positively identified by dental comparison. Although no cause of death could be determined, the investigation indicates that these deaths were as a result of a homicide. An examination of a deceased dog located at the Klaus Farm revealed it sustained a gunshot wound.
Jason KLAUS is the son, brother and the sole surviving member of the Klaus family. Joshua FRANK is an associate of Jason KLAUS. No other suspects are being sought in this investigation.
The RCMP will not comment on the cause of deaths or any investigative strategies in relation to this investigation.
RCMP investigators would like to thank the community of Castor, the general public and the media assistance and support throughout this investigation.
If you have any information in regards to this investigation, please contact the RCMP Calgary Major Crimes Unit at 403-699-2655, or to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1.800.222.8477 (TIPS), by internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by SMS (check your local Crime Stoppers [www.crimestoppers.ab.ca] for instructions on how to do). You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers, and if you provide information to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest(s), the recovery of stolen property, and/or a seizure of illicit drugs, you may be eligible for a cash reward.