GARDEN HILL FIRST NATION, Man. – RCMP have made an arrest in the death of an 11-year-old northern Manitoba girl originally thought to have been killed by a bear.

The Mounties say a male has been taken into custody on the Garden Hill reserve where Teresa Robinson lived.

She disappeared last May after leaving a birthday party in the remote, fly-in community.

Her remains were found six days later and police soon ruled her death a homicide.

Last month, RCMP asked about 2,000 reserve males between 15 and 66 to volunteer samples of their DNA.

RCMP say they will provide details on Friday.

“While we understand that this arrest will generate a lot of questions, we are not in a position to provide further information at this time as there are a number of investigative steps currently being undertaken” Sgt. Bert Paquet said in a release.

Indigenous leaders were briefed on the arrest.

“Your loss is tremendous and our hearts and prayers are with you at this time,” said a statement issued by Grand Chief Sheila North Wilson of the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc.

“While the circumstances are very difficult, I hope that this new information may help bring some closure for the family and the community.”