Reaction to stabbing rampage at First Nation, village in Saskatchewan

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This article was published 06/09/2022 (841 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

JAMES SMITH CREE NATION – A stabbing rampage has left 10 people dead on the James Smith Cree Nation and in the nearby village of Weldon, northeast of Saskatoon. At least 18 others have been injured.

RCMP say one of the suspects, Damien Sanderson, was also found dead on Monday. His brother Myles Sanderson is still at large and police say he may be injured.

Here is some of the reaction:

“They were our relatives, friends. Mostly we’re all related here, so it’s pretty hard. It’s pretty horrific.” — Chakastaypasin Chief Calvin Sanderson.

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“My mind is somewhere else. It’s a shock. No one in this town is ever going to sleep again. They’re going to be terrified to open their door, answer their door.” — Weldon, Sask., resident Ruby Works.

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“I would like to extend my condolences to those who have lost loved ones in the attacks that occurred this past weekend in Saskatchewan. My thoughts and prayers are with those recovering from injuries, and grieving such horrific losses. I mourn with all Canadians at this tragic time.” — the Queen.

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“The attacks at James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon, Saskatchewan are truly heartbreaking. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of these horrific acts and all those that have lost loved ones. Catherine and I send our best wishes to the people of Canada.” — Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

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“It is senseless and devastating. I won’t get ahead of the Canadian law enforcement as they continue their work. Our thoughts are with the victims of this horrific attack. We stand with Canada, our ally and neighbour, and all those affected by this tragedy and condemn this senseless violence.” — White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

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“Those of you that have friends and family in the James Smith community or Weldon, or are impacted in any way, please know that all of this province’s heart is with you and your family.” — Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe.

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“People are traumatized, people are hurting, people are injured. There are going to be many, many conversations about next steps and how we move forward.” — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

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“Horrified by the deadly attacks committed in Saskatchewan today. Dear @JustinTrudeau, dear Canadian people, Europe mourns with you … I will pay my tribute to the victims when I’m in Saskatoon in 2 weeks.” — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

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“I am filled with sadness for the survivors, families and friends who have lost loved ones from these communities. These are devastating losses that words cannot even come close to describing.

“We are thinking of you today and for the weeks to come. Canadians today mourn with you and wish you courage during these difficult times.” — Gov. Gen. Mary Simon

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“The uncertainty continues to cause immeasurable stress and panic among our families, friends and neighbours. They have already gone through enough. We must do everything we can to help end this tragedy without any more loss of life. Someone out there knows something.” — Chief Bobby Cameron, Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations.

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“The tragedy that has unfolded in James Smith Cree Nation and surrounding areas is absolutely devastating. My deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, as well as to the injured and their families.

“I’ve reached out to the leadership (of the) James Smith Cree Nation to offer Canada’s full support and any assistance that will be needed in the coming days.” — Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Marc Miller.

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“I’ve been in contact w/ Chief Wally Burns to ensure that his community’s needs are met under their declared #StateOfEmergency

“I’ve also reached out to Minister @marcomendicino and Chief Calvin Sanderson and Chief Robert Head. Please keep all leadership and families in your prayers.” — Assembly of First Nations National Chief RoseAnne Archibald.

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“My heart is with the people of James Smith Cree Nation, Weldon, Regina & all Saskatchewanians who have been impacted by the horrific stabbings today. I am keeping you all in my thoughts tonight. Please be alert and continue to follow the advice of @RCMPSK.” — Justice Minister David Lametti.

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“We are grateful for all the first responders on the ground working hard to keep us safe and the health care workers treating those hurt.

“We are all devastated to hear of the acts of senseless violence committed in our province and our thoughts are with all those who are grieving. Our team, and our entire province, grieves with you.” — Saskatchewan Roughriders Canadian Football League team.

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“The brutality and apparent randomness of these attacks have shocked the entire country. Albertans stand shoulder to shoulder with our friends in Saskatchewan in their grief.

“My heart also goes out to the people of the James Smith Cree Nation and to First Nations communities across Canada who feel the anger and sorrow of this tragedy in a deeper and far more personal way.” — Alberta Premier Jason Kenney.

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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 7, 2022.