Saskatchewan RCMP are continuing their investigation into a fatal shooting that occurred Monday in the northern village of Pelican Narrows, which is part of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN). Authorities have not yet confirmed the identity of the victim, a woman who died at the scene. A dangerous person alert was issued following the incident but was lifted after the suspect was arrested.
Details of the Incident
According to RCMP, two people were shot on the same road at two separate locations a short distance from each other. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene, while a man sustained serious injuries. Insp. Ashley St. Germaine, acting officer in charge of the RCMP major crimes branch, stated that the deceased is an adult woman and that the RCMP are working with the Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service to identify her. She declined to provide further details about the man's injuries, citing privacy concerns.
Suspect Arrested
The suspect was arrested at a home in Pelican Narrows shortly after 7 p.m. Monday. RCMP have not yet laid charges. St. Germaine explained that investigators are still processing evidence at multiple scenes, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage. She noted that the investigation is in its preliminary stages and that they will work with Crown counsel to determine appropriate charges. She did not comment on a possible motive or whether the victim and suspect knew each other.
Dangerous Person Alert
RCMP were called to Pelican Narrows at 1:56 p.m. Monday regarding a shooting near the Angelique Canada health centre. The shooting did not occur at the clinic, as initially reported. Officers from nearby detachments, including Creighton, Sandy Bay, and Deschambault Lake, provided support, along with specialized RCMP and provincial teams. A dangerous person alert was issued at 2:29 p.m., advising residents in Pelican Narrows and 22 surrounding communities to seek shelter and lock their doors. The alert was cancelled at 8:43 p.m. after the suspect was taken into custody.
Community Response
In a media release posted on Facebook Monday night, PBCN announced that schools and the band office would remain closed. The health clinic will only see patients with serious medical needs for the remainder of the week. The First Nation urged members to stay calm and vigilant and to avoid sharing unverified information online. The statement concluded, "PBCN will continue working with our partners to protect the safety and well-being of Pelican Narrows members."
Rise in Violent Crime
RCMP Chief Supt. Murray Chamberlin noted that violent crime in Pelican Narrows has increased by 49 percent over the past decade, describing the situation as extremely concerning. The RCMP continue to ask witnesses to come forward, emphasizing that eyewitness accounts will be key to providing answers to the victims and their families.
