The James Smith Cree Nation will be observing a somber occasion as they quietly mark the second anniversary of a tragic mass killing event. On January 22, 2019, a gunman opened fire in the small community, leaving four people dead and two others injured.
The community has chosen to commemorate this day with a private ceremony, in order to honor the victims and respect the wishes of their families. Chief Wally Burns of the James Smith Cree Nation expressed that this is a time for the community to come together and remember those who were lost.
The shooting took place in a home on the reserve, where a family was gathered for a birthday celebration. The victims were identified as 17-year-old Dayne Fontaine, 17-year-old Drayden Fontaine, 13-year-old Drayden’s cousin, and 53-year-old Clarence Thorpe. The two injured individuals were Dayne’s mother and Drayden’s sister.
The perpetrator, who cannot be named due to a publication ban, was arrested and charged with four counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder. He is currently awaiting trial.
The tragedy shook the close-knit community of James Smith Cree Nation, with many struggling to come to terms with the senseless loss of life. In the aftermath, the community came together to support each other and heal from the trauma.
Chief Burns stated that the community has been working towards healing and moving forward, but the pain of this event will never be forgotten. He also expressed gratitude for the support and solidarity shown by neighboring communities and the nation as a whole.
As the second anniversary of this tragic event approaches, the James Smith Cree Nation asks for privacy and respect as they remember and honor the lives that were taken. Our thoughts are with the community during this difficult time.
