Police have confirmed one person died and two others were injured in shootings that took place shortly before 1am on Saturday in Fort Providence.
The identity of the person killed has not been released. The condition of the two injured people was not given.
Nobody has been arrested.
“This is believed to be an isolated incident that does not pose a risk to the general public,” RCMP stated.
Police said officers had been called to a home in Fort Providence at 12:45am, where they found one person already dead. The two injured people were taken to the health centre, RCMP stated in a Saturday afternoon news release.
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“The Northwest Territories RCMP’s Major Crimes Unit has been engaged and will be investigating in collaboration with the Office of the Chief Coroner,” RCMP stated.
“Additional resources, including RCMP Forensic Identification Services, have been deployed to the community. No arrests have been made at this time.”
RCMP said more information will be provided when available.
A significantly increased police presence had been established in the community by morning light on Saturday.
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By 2pm, an RCMP spokesperson had told Cabin Radio there was no longer any need to shelter in place.
Earlier that morning, Dehcho MLA Sheryl Yakeleya had told residents to “stay home and lock your doors until further notice.”
“If you know anything about this situation, please let the RCMP know now,” Yakeleya wrote at 9:40am. “Watch over each other and stay safe. Pray for our community.”
The NWT’s health authority circulated a list of mental health supports for residents available this weekend and in coming days.
Special assembly cancelled
A Dehcho Process special assembly scheduled to take place in Fort Providence from March 18-20 has been cancelled, organizers said on Saturday.
The Dehcho Process is an ongoing set of negotiations regarding governance, resources and land in the region.
In a news release, organizers of the assembly said it would no longer take place “due to unforeseen events that have recently affected the community.”
“Chiefs, leaders, and staff of the Dehcho First Nations extend their deepest sympathies and thoughts to the residents of Fort Providence as they navigate these difficult circumstances,” the news release stated.
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“It is our priority to ensure the well-being and safety of the communities during this challenging time.”
A new date for the assembly will be made public when possible, organizers added.
Elsewhere, Fort Providence’s Northern store said online it would remain closed on Saturday. The Big River Service Centre said its bar would be closed for the day but the gas side of the business would remain open.
