The chief of a Saskatchewan First Nation devastated by a fatal stabbing spree says the acts of violence must stop. Chief Wally Burns of the James Smith Cree Nation spoke with other First Nations leaders this morning, one day after RCMP arrested a suspect. Burns says words cannot express the impact of what happened and the many families who lost loved ones need support. The main suspect in the rampage that left 10 dead and 18 injured has died in police custody following a manhunt. RCMP say Miles Sanderson suffered a medical problem shortly after being chased in a stolen vehicle and caught in a ditch next to a highway north of Saskatoon. The only other suspect, Sanderson’s brother Damien, was found dead Monday and RCMP say the motive behind the killings may never be truly known. Indigenous leaders are joined by the RCMP and some federal cabinet ministers, including Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino. The First Nation gathered for the first vigil since the attacks Wednesday night as community members braced for more in the coming days. Three teepees have been set up behind the James Smith Cree Nation school. They were placed after the knife attacks for people to hold ceremonies, find healing and honor those who lost their lives. As community members gathered for Thursday’s speeches behind the school, many hugged and shook hands. Many of the women wore aboriginal ribbon skirts. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on September 9, 2022.
