Lawyers are busy collecting evidence in the case of a young Ahtahkakoop man’s murder.

That was the message from defense at the court appearance for Dakota Hilliard John Knife, 20, on Thursday morning. He’s charged with the first-degree murder of Tyrone Jacob Knife, 21, on September 2.

The Crown and police evidence in the case could lead to conflicts, which means there’s a need for defence to receive substantial disclosure, Legal Aid lawyer Adam Masiowski told the judge at Prince Albert Provincial Court.

Tyrone was found on a trail leading to homes on the reserve, early in the morning on September 2.

He had an apparent gunshot wound, the RCMP wrote in a release.

STARS air ambulance was called in to try to save him, but Tyrone was pronounced dead before the flight.

That same day, Dakota was arrested nearby – but on unrelated matters.

When officers realized he was the suspect in Tyrone’s death, they laid those charges.

Mounties say the two men were relatives.

Dakota is also charged with using a firearm while committing an indictable offence, assault, aggravated assault and possession of a prohibited weapon.

He is still in custody and has not sought bail at this time.

Dakota was present in court when his case was set ahead until October 27. His attendance will be waived.