The Cree Nation of Mistissini, positioned approximately 600 kilometers northwest of Quebec City, has ended a lockdown alert following the fatal shooting of two men. The Quebec coroner’s office identified the deceased as Bedabin Neeposh, aged 30, and Daniel Benac, aged 29, both residents of Mistissini. Chief Michael Petawabano of the community mentioned that while the investigation is ongoing, law enforcement has confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
Expressing gratitude towards community members for their patience and cooperation during the challenging period, Chief Petawabano acknowledged their resilience in a social media post. Sûreté du Québec (SQ) spokesperson Hugues Beaulieu indicated that the homicides may have ties to organized crime but assured that there is no active threat to the community, deeming it an isolated incident.
Previously, Chief Petawabano had ordered the closure of all community establishments and imposed travel restrictions in and out of Mistissini. Residents were instructed to secure their doors and obey directives from law enforcement. The SQ reported that the shooting occurred at around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, with two men in their 30s found with gunshot wounds in a vehicle.
Despite declining interview requests, Chief Petawabano conveyed his condolences through social media, emphasizing the community’s solidarity during this tragic event. Quebec Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière and National Chief for the Assembly of First Nations, Cindy Woodhouse, also expressed support and sympathy for Mistissini, urging compliance with Chief Petawabano’s guidance.
Mistissini, with a population of approximately 4,000 individuals, is situated on the southern edge of Lake Mistassini.