Cree Nation in Quebec on lockdown after fatal shootings

The Cree Nation of Mistissini in Quebec is on lockdown on Thursday after a “serious shooting incident that has resulted in multiple fatalities,” according to its chief.

In a post on Facebook, Chief Michael Petawabano said the provincial police, Sûreté du Québec, and the local police, the Eeyou Eenou Police Force, were currently investigating.

A Sûreté du Québec spokesperson told CBC that two people were killed in the incident, which occurred on Wednesday night around 9 p.m. He said local police responded to reports of shots being fired. Two men in their 30s, from the community, were located inside a vehicle with gunshot wounds. No arrests have been made, he said, and no suspect information was provided. The incident may be related to organized crime, he said, per the publication.

All community buildings, including schools and offices, are closed. Travel in and out of the community is restricted and residents should heed the instructions from law enforcement, he said.

He urged residents to remain in their homes until further notice.

“Our hearts are heavy with grief for the lives lost and the families affected by this tragedy,” said Petawabano. “We ask all community members to remain calm, stay indoors, and cooperate fully with police as they conduct their investigation. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.”

The lockdown will remain in effect until law enforcement confirms it is safe to resume normal activities.

Late Wednesday, an emergency notice was posted on Facebook, saying there was “an active shooter who remains at large.” The Council of the Cree Nation of Mistissini then authorized the community-wide lockdown. Just after midnight, another post said there was ongoing police intervention within the community.

The total registered population of the Cree Nation of Mistissini, as of December 2025, is 4,257, according to the federal government.

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