FOX CREEK First Nation – Official Statement from Chief Walter Spence, Fox Lake Cree Nation:
“Our thoughts are with the community of York Factory First Nation, who are currently dealing with the frightening possibility that these individuals may be nearby. We hope for a quick and safe conclusion to this entire situation. As the challenging work of locating the two suspects continues, our community members and volunteers are exhausted and fatigued.
The ongoing stress of the large police, military, and media presence in the community is starting to take its toll, and our community members look forward to a return to normalcy.
While the minds and hearts of the world have descended on Gillam and Fox Lake Cree Nation as the ongoing search for the two wanted suspects continues, we ask that media is mindful of the stress that this ordeal is taking on our families, and the impact that the telling of these experiences has on individuals.
Community members are politely asking for privacy in these difficult times.
I want to once again acknowledge the strength with which our community has responded to this very stressful situation, and counselling supports and community patrols will be maintained as the search continues.
On behalf of Chief and Council, and the community of Fox Lake Cree Nation, I want to acknowledge the good communication and support that we have received from the RCMP, as well as the outreach and support from our partners at the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), the Keewatin Tribal Council, and the added support and presence of the Bear Clan Patrol to help with community safety.
We also extend our sincere gratitude to our community volunteers and night patrols whose tireless efforts have assisted in keeping our community together, strong, and safe. I continue to encourage everyone to remain calm and vigilant as they assist the RCMP in this important and challenging work.
Any information that someone may have could be valuable to the investigation, and I encourage people to report any concerning or suspicious activity directly to the RCMP.”
