Lockdown lifted in Cree Nation of Mistissini, Que. after 2 men shot

The Cree Nation of Mistissini, in Quebec’s northern Baie-James municipality, is no longer under lockdown following an incident where two men in their 30s were killed after being shot in a vehicle.

The Sûreté du Québec (SQ) says it was alerted to the scene at 9 p.m. Wednesday after multiple gunshots were heard on Riverside Street.

“We are not talking about an active shooter, but rather a settling of scores, possibly linked to drug trafficking and organized crime,” SQ Sergeant Hugues Beaulieu told Noovo Info.

Community under lockdown

The lockdown came early Thursday morning after Chief Michael Petawabano of the Cree Nation of Mistissini issued a statement about “a serious shooting incident that has resulted in multiple fatalities.”

“The safety and security of community members remains our highest priority,” he said at the time.

As such, all residents were asked to remain in their homes and “keep doors locked” until further notice.

All community buildings, schools, offices and facilities were closed, and travel in and out of the community was restricted.

“I want to thank our community members for their patience, cooperation and resilience during this difficult time,” said Petawabano.

“The lockdown has been lifted, and we can begin to return to our daily routines. However, our hearts remain with the families, and we continue to stand together as a community in support of those affected by this tragedy.”

Petawabano notes that crisis support services are available for anyone who may need them.

The investigation by the Eeyou Eenou Police Force (EEPF) and the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) is ongoing.

Politicians send condolences

Premier François Legault said in a statement posted to X that law enforcement and other necessary resources have been deployed to the community.

“My thoughts are with the Cree community,” he said.

Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty, a former grand chief of the Cree Nation and the local MP for the area, said she was saddened by the tragic events.

“I was absolutely devastated to hear what is going on in my riding,” she told reporters in Ottawa.

“It is such a tough morning to wake up to.”

- With files from The Canadian Press