The Chief of Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation, Kele Antoine, expressed deep concern over a recent shooting incident in Fort Simpson, N.W.T., which resulted in one person being injured. Antoine emphasized the tight-knit nature of the small community, where the well-being of one family impacts everyone. He urged community members with any information about the shooting to step forward, highlighting the importance of collaboration with law enforcement.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) reported that they received a call around 1:40 a.m. regarding a man shot in a home’s backyard. The victim was promptly taken to a local health center and later transferred to Yellowknife for further medical attention. The authorities indicated that the shooting seemed to be targeted, prompting an ongoing investigation with support from Yellowknife RCMP and other agencies. Despite the incident, the police assured that there is no immediate danger to the public.
Antoine speculated that the shooting may be linked to drug activities, though this has not been officially confirmed by the RCMP. He stressed the need for sustained funding and adequate resources for local law enforcement to address violence effectively. Antoine emphasized the necessity of a continuous effort to combat the drug trade and prevent future violent incidents in the community.