RCMP has issued a shelter-in-place directive for Fort Smith, N.W.T., early Saturday morning while they pursue an armed male suspect. The Fireweed Festival NT organizers posted on social media alerting of a “serious incident” involving a firearm at Dirty O’Fergies, a local pub, during the festival kickoff. The festival mentioned injuries to several individuals, pending confirmation by law enforcement.
Authorities are actively searching for the armed male suspect and have set up a community portal for the public to submit digital evidence from witnesses. A photo of the suspect, described as a male in a grey sweater, has been released by the RCMP, urging residents to contact the police with any relevant information.
Residents are urged to remain indoors, avoid opening doors for strangers, and refrain from sharing images of responding officers on social platforms. The CBC’s Jared Monkman is presently in Fort Smith to broadcast The Weekender live from the festival, scheduled to commence at 6 a.m. MT. Listeners can tune in via radio or CBC Listen.
The Fort Smith Health Centre is operating for emergency services exclusively, implementing lockdown and mass casualty procedures. Residents are advised to call ahead before seeking medical assistance when possible.
In its fifth iteration, the Fireweed Festival NT is a celebration of music, culture, and community, offering live performances, interactive workshops, and community-centered events in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
This is an ongoing situation.
