Almost nine hours after the RCMP responded to a report of gunfire in BehchokÇ«Ì, N.W.T., residents are now allowed to resume normal activities. The police have lifted the shelter-in-place order that was in effect throughout Friday afternoon and evening.
In a news release at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, the RCMP stated that while the order has been lifted and several individuals have been apprehended, the investigation is ongoing. They emphasized that there will be an increased police presence in the community as they continue to gather evidence. The RCMP mentioned that they believe the incident was a targeted attack.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the BehchokÇ«Ì RCMP. Earlier in the day, there were reports that at least one individual was still at large. However, following further investigation and a thorough risk assessment, the RCMP assured the community that it is safe.
To assist with the investigation, the police have set up a website where community members can submit any video, photo, or digital evidence related to the incident. Earlier reports indicated that the RCMP were searching for five or six individuals traveling on two snowmobiles armed with long guns, but no injuries were reported.
Throughout the afternoon and evening, Chief Jimmy Bruneau School and Elizabeth Mackenzie Elementary School were on lockdown, but parents were later informed that they could pick up their children after 8 p.m. School buses were arranged to transport students home with expected delays.
Both schools reassured parents on Facebook that students were safe, well taken care of, and in good spirits. Staff members remained with the students until they were either picked up or transported by bus. The TÅı̨chÇ« government also advised parents not to come to daycares until the lockdown was lifted.
The RCMP had earlier deployed additional police resources to the community and requested the public not to disclose police locations. Specialty units and a critical incident commander were among the additional resources, but specific details were withheld for safety reasons.
BehchokÇ«Ì, with a population of around 2,000 people, is situated approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Yellowknife. Chief Bertha Rabesca-Zoe, who was away from the community at the time, urged residents to look out for each other and expressed her thoughts and prayers for everyone’s safety.
BehchokÇ«Ì resident Clifford Daniels described how the morning unfolded into a serious situation, causing concern among community members. He emphasized the gravity of the incident and the heightened sense of urgency compared to previous lockdowns in the area.
As the community awaited more information, Daniels anticipated a prolonged period before clarity was achieved. The RCMP did not confirm if the arrested individuals have been charged but expressed gratitude to the community for their cooperation and patience during the incident.
