A shelter-in-place mandate has been rescinded by N.W.T. RCMP as two individuals were apprehended in Fort Smith after a “mass shooting incident” that left three individuals wounded in the community early Saturday. Authorities stated that it is premature to confirm if the detained individuals are connected to the incident, but they have a strong suspicion that this was a targeted assault.
“The RCMP have taken two individuals into custody, but at this stage of the inquiry, we cannot definitively link them to the incident,” the RCMP informed CBC News at around 4 p.m. MT. Before 4:30 p.m., law enforcement announced that normal activities can resume, assuring that there is no immediate danger to the community. However, an enhanced police presence is expected as the investigation remains ongoing.
Law enforcement responded to reports of gunfire outside a local establishment in the community with just over 2,000 residents on the Slave River adjacent to the Alberta border at approximately 2:12 a.m. Witnesses claimed the shooting occurred outside Dirty O’Fergies bar during the conclusion of the Fireweed Festival opening event, a local music festival.
The three injured individuals are currently receiving medical attention, with their identities undisclosed by the police. Following the incident, the community was issued a shelter-in-place directive shortly before 3 a.m. Emergency response teams from N.W.T. and the Yukon are aiding RCMP, including police dogs, drones, and the major crimes unit.
Describing the suspect as a male with a heavy build, medium complexion, black hair, and facial hair, sporting a grey sweater, law enforcement cautioned that he was armed and advised the public against approaching him, urging immediate contact with the RCMP upon sighting him. While the RCMP released images of the suspect, they warned against the circulation of AI-generated images on social media, emphasizing their inaccuracy.
A community portal has been established for the public to submit digital evidence from witnesses. Fort Smith Mayor Dana Fergusson urged the community to stay composed, highlighting the strength and unity of the town amidst the situation. Fergusson was present in the parking lot with her son outside Dirty O’Fergies during the incident, as the bar is a family-owned establishment within the Pelican Rapids Inn.
Originating from a confrontation among a group of men, the incident escalated to gunfire, as recounted by witnesses. Fergusson, along with two staff members, tended to the injured before ushering everyone indoors for safety until emergency responders arrived. Expressing dismay over the unnecessary violence, she emphasized that the community is not represented by such actions but rather by positivity and unity.
Melissa Johns, one of the Fireweed Festival organizers, conveyed her devastation over the incident, having dedicated immense effort to the festival, which drew attendees from across Canada. Despite the incident, the festival announced its continuation on Facebook, affirming no ongoing risk to the event and aligning with RCMP guidance for community safety.
The festival acknowledged the gravity of the situation, recognizing that some may not feel ready to attend. Drawing inspiration from the fireweed flower symbolizing resilience and renewal after adversity, the festival pledged to support each other and stand strong together. CBC’s Jared Monkman is stationed in Fort Smith and will be broadcasting live from the community Sunday on The Weekender from 6 to 9 a.m., accessible via radio or CBC Listen.