Update on Brunswick House First Nation shooting and shelter-in-place advisory
A shooting incident in Brunswick House First Nation on Sunday afternoon has prompted a precautionary shelter-in-place order as investigators from the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS) Major Crimes Unit work to determine what happened and who is responsible. The ongoing investigation has led authorities to issue safety guidance for residents and travelers in the Chapleau area and surrounding communities.
What happened and how the investigation began
According to a news release from NAPS, officers responded to a disturbance at a residential address in Brunswick House First Nation. They located an injured male, though the exact extent of his injuries was not immediately clear at the time of the release. Officials emphasized that there was no indication at that moment that the injuries were life-threatening, but the situation warranted a thorough investigation to establish the sequence of events and identify a suspect.
Ongoing pursuit of a suspect
NAPS confirmed that a male suspect is being sought in connection with the incident. The search involves multiple units, including the NAPS Emergency Response Team, frontline officers, and officers from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). Law enforcement is actively working to locate and apprehend the suspect while ensuring community safety. Residents are reminded to avoid engaging with anyone who matches descriptions provided by police and to report sightings immediately.
Impact on the community and safety precautions
As the investigation continues, Brunswick House First Nation residents are under a shelter-in-place advisory. Authorities urge everyone in the area to stay indoors, lock doors and windows, and avoid unnecessary travel. Specific precautions include:
- Seek immediate shelter if outdoors; stay inside a secure location.
- Lock all doors and windows when indoors and close curtains or blinds if possible.
- Avoid approaching or engaging with any suspects and call 9-1-1 if encountered.
- If driving, travel directly to a destination and lock doors upon arrival; do not pick up hitchhikers.
- Follow all directions given by officers on the scene and stay informed through official channels.
The advisory also affects nearby areas; motorists in the Chapleau region are advised to stay vigilant and minimize stops. Those not currently in the affected zone are asked to refrain from traveling to the area until further notice. Authorities have stressed that the safety of residents and travelers remains the priority as the investigation proceeds.
Education and community impact
As a precaution, Brunswick House First Nation canceled school bus services for Tuesday, Oct. 14. Educators and families are asked to monitor official updates for changes that may arise as police continue their work. Schools and community facilities plan to resume operations only when authorities determine it is safe to do so.
What comes next
NAPS notes that significant police presence will remain in the Brunswick House First Nation area as investigators review evidence, interview witnesses, and search for the suspect. The release encourages the public to watch for updates on NAPS social media channels and to follow verified communications for real-time information. The police service said it understands the anxiety such incidents cause and reassures residents that every precaution is being taken to bring the matter to a safe resolution.
For ongoing information, the public is encouraged to follow Nishnawbe Aski Police Service on X (formerly Twitter) at @NAPS_Police and on Facebook at /NAPSPolice for real-time updates.
