A shelter-in-place order has been lifted and N.W.T. RCMP say two people were arrested in Fort Smith following what they called a “mass shooting incident” that injured three people in the community early Saturday, according to local police reports. Police stated it’s too early to tell if the two people arrested are linked to the incident, but authorities have “reasonable grounds to believe that this was a targeted attack.”
Fort Smith Police Response and Targeted Attack Investigation
The RCMP stated around 4 p.m. MT that two persons of interest had been arrested, though it remains too early in the investigation to confirm whether they are directly linked to the shooting. In an update issued before 4:30 p.m., police announced that residents can resume normal activities and that there is no longer a direct threat to the community. The investigation remains active, and officials noted that people can expect to see an increased police presence in the area. According to police timelines, authorities were alerted at approximately 2:12 a.m. to shots fired outside a local business in the community of just over 2,000 people situated on the Slave River next to the Alberta border.
Witnesses reported that the shooting took place outside Dirty O’Fergies bar as the opening event of the Fireweed Festival, a community music festival, was drawing to a close. The three injured individuals are currently receiving medical care, though police have not released information regarding their identities. The community was ordered to shelter-in-place just before 3 a.m. Emergency response teams from the N.W.T. and the Yukon assisted RCMP alongside police dogs, remote piloted aircraft, and the major crimes unit.
Suspect Description and Social Media Warnings
Police initially described the suspect as male with a heavy build, medium complexion, black hair and facial hair, wearing a grey sweater. He was believed to be armed, and the public was urged not to approach him but to call the RCMP immediately if spotted. While law enforcement shared photos of the suspect, they also issued a warning regarding images generated by artificial intelligence circulating on social media. According to the RCMP, these images do not match the descriptors of the subject, and authorities requested that the public not share it any further as it is inaccurate. Police also opened a community portal to collect digital evidence from witnesses.
Did You Know? Fort Smith is a community of just over 2,000 people situated on the Slave River next to the Alberta border.
Community Impact and Festival Disruptions
Fort Smith Mayor Dana Fergusson urged the community to remain calm following the early morning violence. Fergusson was in the parking lot with her son outside Dirty O’Fergies—a bar located in the Pelican Rapids Inn owned by her family—when the incident unfolded. According to witnesses, what started as an altercation between a group of men resulted in multiple shots being fired. Fergusson and staff members assisted the injured before guiding others inside the safety of the building until emergency responders arrived. Festival organizers expressed deep distress over the disruption, noting that the Park Party originally planned at Queen Elizabeth Territorial Park was postponed while organizers awaited further direction from police.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the shelter-in-place order in Fort Smith?
According to police, a “mass shooting incident” occurred early Saturday morning outside Dirty O’Fergies bar, injuring three people and prompting a shelter-in-place order just before 3 a.m.
Are the suspects in custody?
The RCMP reported that two persons of interest were arrested following the incident, though police stated it is still too early in the investigation to confirm whether they are directly linked to the shooting.
Is the community still under a threat warning?
Police lifted the shelter-in-place order after determining there is no direct threat to the community, though residents can expect an increased police presence while the investigation continues.
How has your local community adapted to sudden security challenges during major public events?
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