Three individuals sustained injuries in a shooting incident outside a business in Fort Smith, N.W.T., early on Saturday, as confirmed by the RCMP. The occurrence unfolded towards the conclusion of the opening event of the Fireweed Festival in the town, which is home to just over 2,000 residents and is located near the Slave River close to the Alberta border.
A shelter-in-place directive for Fort Smith was initiated at 11:30 a.m. MT on Saturday, around eight hours after its implementation. MLA Jay Macdonald, the representative for Fort Smith, issued a statement urging residents to remain sheltered and comply with RCMP directives while refraining from sharing information that may impede police operations. Macdonald highlighted the ongoing coordination between the territorial government, RCMP, and local authorities.
Mayor Dana Fergusson of Fort Smith appealed for calm within the community, emphasizing its resilience and unity during challenging times. Fergusson, who was present outside Dirty O’Fergies bar with her son when the incident occurred, recounted swiftly moving individuals to safety upon witnessing the altercation escalate into gunfire. She emphasized that the unfortunate incident was not a reflection of the community’s values and spirit.
Eyewitnesses reported that a disagreement among a group of men escalated into gunfire, leading to the injuries. Fergusson, alongside two staff members, tended to the wounded before securing the area until emergency services arrived. While the cause of the altercation remains undisclosed, Fergusson stressed that the shooting did not align with the community’s character, attributing it to the actions of a few individuals.
The three injured parties are currently receiving medical treatment, with the police describing the suspect as a male individual of heavy build, medium complexion, black hair, and facial hair, dressed in a gray sweater and believed to be armed.
Melissa Faith-Johns, one of the Fireweed Festival organizers, expressed devastation over the incident, emphasizing the festival’s significance and the efforts invested in its organization. She noted the diverse attendees from across Canada and awaited guidance from law enforcement regarding the festival’s continuation. Festival updates would be communicated through the event’s social media platforms.
Residents are urged to report any information related to the shooting to the authorities, with a community portal established for digital evidence collection. Precautionary measures have been advised, including staying indoors, avoiding unnecessary contact, and refraining from sharing law enforcement activities on social media.
Health facilities and public spaces in Fort Smith have implemented security measures in response to the incident, with the community advised to prioritize safety protocols until official clearance is provided. The Fireweed Festival NT, renowned for its music, cultural showcases, and community engagement, has been disrupted by the unforeseen events, impacting scheduled activities at the Queen Elizabeth Territorial Park.
As the investigation unfolds, residents are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement and exercise vigilance in the wake of the shooting incident that has disrupted the peace of Fort Smith.
