Mass Shooting Rocks Remote Cree Nation in Northern Quebec, Community Placed Under Full Lockdown

MISTISSINI, Quebec — A remote First Nations community in northern Quebec has been thrust into lockdown following a serious shooting incident that left multiple people dead, authorities and community leaders confirmed Thursday.

The Cree Nation of Mistissini, a community of roughly 4,000 residents located along the shores of Lake Mistassini some 600 kilometres northwest of Quebec City, was placed under strict lockdown measures late Wednesday night after reports of an active shooter and a "serious shooting incident" emerged.

Chief Michael Petawabano issued an urgent statement on social media, urging all residents to remain indoors, lock their doors, and avoid travel in or out of the community. "Our hearts are heavy with grief for the lives lost and the families affected by this tragedy," the chief said. "We ask all community members to remain calm, stay indoors, and cooperate fully with police as they conduct their investigation."

All schools, community buildings, offices, and public facilities have been closed indefinitely. The lockdown will remain in effect until law enforcement — including the Eeyou Eenou Police Force and Quebec's provincial police, the Sûreté du Québec — determine it is safe to resume normal activities.

Details about the number of victims, the circumstances of the shooting, or the status of any suspect(s) remain limited at this early stage, with officials describing the event only as having caused "multiple fatalities." No further information on potential motives or whether the shooter remains at large has been released publicly.

The announcement of the lockdown came amid growing concern in the isolated James Bay region community, where residents were first alerted to the danger late Wednesday. Local leaders emphasized the profound impact on the tight-knit population, with Chief Petawabano noting the collective grieving process already underway.

This incident marks a tragic escalation of violence in a region where Indigenous communities have long faced challenges related to safety and access to services. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting affected families and ensuring the safety of all Mistissini residents.

Authorities have asked the public to avoid the area and to follow official updates from the Cree Nation leadership and police. This is a developing story, and more details are expected as the investigation progresses.

17GEN4.com