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A Big Island Lake Cree Nation resident says their community is scared and hurting, with some members considering leaving their homes.
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- Big Island member appeals for help to curb violence, drugs, gang activity after fatal shooting
- RCMP investigate gunfire on First Nation in Saskatchewan after deadly shooting
CKOM news has confirmed that 31-year old Neil Wahpistikwan was killed, and three others were injured in the Dec. 30, 2025 shooting.
Jocelin Sandfly said Wahpistikwan would visit the local gas bar she manages, describing him as “quiet but funny.”
After his death, she said there is a sense of depression and desperation for solutions within the Big Island Lake Cree Nation community. She said families are also staying home and keeping loved ones close.
“It’s affected me. I’m scared for my staff (and) I am scared for their safety,” she said. “I don’t want to keep them here late.”
Sandfly said she has reduced hours at the business from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. following the incident.
“I just want to make sure I get home to my children,” she said. “I don’t want to stay here too late either.”
Sandfly said there has been an increased police presence on the First Nation since the shooting as officers continue to investigate.
“There were cops driving around the store area here,” she said. “I felt safe, (police) were stopping people and checking vehicles.”
Sandfly said she wants to see the First Nation have its own police service and station within the community, noting a visible full time presence would deter people from harming others.
While security officers are already present on Big Island Lake Cree Nation, Sandfly said many people do not take their authority seriously.
Sandfly said violence is hurting people in the community including youth and elders.
“It’s getting way out of hand and a lot of people are getting braver, and they just don’t care who they hurt.”
Sandfly emphasized the need for more programs to help youth engage in sports or after-school activities to steer them away from violence and crime.
“We need something for our youth so they don’t grow up in this,” she said.
According to the RCMP on the morning of Dec. 30 police were sent to Big Island Lake Cree Nation, and said two armed men were last seen riding an ATV in the community.
A dangerous persons alert was issued but cancelled that same day, as police said it was believed there was no longer a threat to the community.
Mounties were called back to the First Nation on Jan 2. over reported gunshots, but have not confirmed whether the incidents were connected.
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