The Chief of Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation, Kele Antoine, expressed deep concern over the impact of 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, stating that the well-being of one family resonates throughout the entire community.
Antoine called upon residents with any information regarding the shooting to cooperate with authorities, stressing the importance of community involvement in such cases. He highlighted the collaborative effort needed between law enforcement and the community to address the situation effectively.
According to the RCMP’s statement released on Friday, officers responded to a call at approximately 1:40 a.m. reporting a shooting incident in a residential backyard. The victim was promptly attended to, receiving initial treatment at the local health center before being transferred to Yellowknife for further medical care.
Authorities stated that the shooting seemed to have been a targeted incident, prompting an ongoing investigation with support from the Yellowknife RCMP and other relevant agencies. Despite the incident, the police assured that there is no immediate threat to the public safety.
While Antoine speculated that the shooting could be linked to drugs, the RCMP has yet to confirm this assumption. Antoine also highlighted the need for consistent, long-term funding and resources for the local RCMP to combat violence effectively in the community. He emphasized the necessity of a sustained effort to address issues related to the drug trade and prevent further instances of violence.