A shelter-in-place directive has been rescinded in Fort Smith as the N.W.T. RCMP confirm the arrest of two individuals after a “mass shooting incident” that left three people wounded in the community early Saturday. Authorities state it is premature to determine if the detained individuals are connected to the event, but they have credible reasons to believe it was a targeted assault.
According to the RCMP, the two persons of interest were apprehended, although the investigation is ongoing to establish any potential ties to the incident. By late afternoon, police announced that residents could resume their normal routines as there is no immediate threat to the community. Nevertheless, an increased police presence will be noticeable as the inquiry progresses.
The police were notified around 2:12 a.m. about gunfire outside a local establishment in the community of just over 2,000 residents located near the Slave River, close to the Alberta border. Witnesses recounted that the shooting occurred outside Dirty O’Fergies bar, coinciding with the conclusion of the Fireweed Festival’s opening event, a local music celebration.
The three injured individuals are currently receiving medical attention, with no details provided on their identities. Following the incident, the community was instructed to shelter-in-place before 3 a.m. Emergency response teams from the N.W.T. and the Yukon are collaborating with the RCMP, employing police dogs, drones, and the major crimes unit in the investigation.
A description of the suspect was released by the police, identifying him as a male with a heavy build, medium complexion, black hair, and facial hair, sporting a grey sweater. Citizens were advised not to approach him and to immediately contact the RCMP if spotted. The RCMP cautioned against circulating AI-generated images of the suspect, emphasizing the use of images provided by the RCMP for accurate identification.
Fort Smith Mayor Dana Fergusson urged the community to remain composed, emphasizing the strength and unity of the town. She shared her personal experience of being present during the incident at Dirty O’Fergies, a bar owned by her family, and highlighted the swift actions taken to ensure everyone’s safety.
The Fireweed Festival organizers expressed their devastation over the situation, with one organizer stating her emotional investment in the event. Despite the incident, the festival confirmed its continuation based on RCMP assurances of no ongoing risk to the community associated with the event.
The festival organizers acknowledged the severity of the incident but emphasized resilience and unity, drawing parallels to the fireweed flower symbolizing strength and renewal after adversity. The CBC’s Jared Monkman will provide live updates from Fort Smith on The Weekender program on Sunday morning.
