For Immediate Release
September 8, 2019
COUNCILLOR STATEMENT: HOUSE FIRE
Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation, Treaty 6 – 6:45pm – Update #3:
“The RCMP have asked me to provide some clarification on the process of their investigation over the next 24 hours and wish to reassure the community that this tragedy is their top priority. At this point, the RCMP are treating the fire as suspicious.
- The Major Crimes Unit will arrive this evening to begin their investigation into the fire and confirm whether the fire is suspicious or rule that out.
- The Forensic Identification Section will also arrive this evening to identify the deceased.
- The Fire Investigation Team will arrive tomorrow to conduct their investigation.
These steps must be taken in order to gain a clearer understanding of the incident. Again, we ask all community members to avoid the area directly surrounding the home and refrain from speculation. I will continue to update the community as needed. I will continue to pray for our affected families and our community.
– Councillor Kevin Seesequasis
5:05pm – Update #2:
“Willow Cree Health Services Emergency Crisis Line is available for individuals requiring mental health support or a home visit. Any member affected by this tragedy can contact: 639-212-7028 and a support worker can arrange a home-visit. Willow Cree Health Services is also open for individual band members to access one-on-one mental health supports.
– Councillor Kevin Seesequasis
4:25pm – Update #1:
“I can confirm that a house fire has occurred at a residence on the Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation. Our Fire Crew responded appropriately and the fire was quickly contained. Sadly, I can also confirm that an individual perished in the house fire. Next of Kin have not yet been notified so I am asking members of the BOCN to refrain from any speculation and posting on social media. The RCMP and Saskatchewan Coroner are on-site and continuing a preliminary investigation. The location around the residence has been cordoned off and I am asking individuals to avoid the area around Dodgies Convenience Store and directly across Willow Cree Health Services. Traffic is being re-routed. I will provide additional information once it becomes available and if appropriate to do so. I wish to extend my condolences to the affected family and my sincere appreciation to our First Crew – appropriate mental health supports are being provided.“
– Councillor Kevin Seesequasis
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