RCMP East District GIS arrests third suspect in Harbour Grace home invasion

July 22, 2026 - Harbour Grace, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

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The RCMP East District General Investigation Section (GIS) has arrested a third person in relation to an early July home invasion and assault that resulted in the hospitalization of one person. Jerry Lee-Welkisch, 33, has been charged with robbery, breaking and entering with intent and aggravated assault, and appeared in provincial court on Tuesday.

Around 4:15 a.m. on July 3, Trinity-Conception District RCMP responded to a report of a break and enter at a residence in Harbour Grace. Three suspects forced entry into the home, and one occupant was assaulted with a weapon. That victim was transported to hospital for treatment of injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening in nature. Police have determined that the suspects and the victim were known to each other, and believe that this was a targeted act. 

RCMP East District GIS was engaged to lead the investigation into this incident. 

Two suspects, Christopher Bursey and Steven Clowe, were arrested earlier this month in relation to the home invasion. On July 20, 2026, 33-year-old Jerry Lee-Welkisch was taken into custody by East District GIS, with the assistance of RCMP Traffic Services East. 

Lee-Welkisch was held in custody at the Harbour Grace detachment to appear in provincial court on Tuesday. He faces Criminal Code charges of:

• Robbery
• Breaking and entering with intent
• Aggravated assault

Bursey was released with conditions last week, while Clowe has been remanded into custody and is expected to make his next court appearance in August 2026. 

The investigation remains active and ongoing. To preserve the integrity of this ongoing investigation, no additional details will be shared publicly at this time.

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