Tŝilhqot’in Nation Stands with Williams Lake

Courtesy of the Tŝilhqot’in National Goverment:

The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) is standing with the Williams Lake public, Tŝilhqot’in members, and all that have been affected by the shooting over the weekend. 

The TNG would like to thank the Williams Lake Stampede organizers and staff, the RCMP and all first responders for effectively handling this tragic situation. Williams Lake has a history of violent shootings but never has there been this level of violence in such a populated area. 

The Williams Lake Stampede is an iconic annual event for the area with many Tsilhqot’in members riding in by horse and wagon, bikes and other modes of transportation to celebrate it. Many Tsilhqot’in members also compete at the Stampede.

TNG Tribal Chair - Joe Alphonse, O.B.C stated:

"We encourage everyone to talk to their friends, family, or the supports that we have in place. Nobody should feel unsafe in their community. This event has left many of our people traumatized and thinking about what could have happened. We are calling on anyone with information to speak with the RCMP. I would like to thank the Williams Lake Stampede Association and the RCMP for their quick response.”

Statement of WLFN Chief regarding Incident at WL Stampede Grounds

Courtesy of Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars - on behalf of Williams Lake First Nation:

“I am shocked and horrified by this senseless act of violence, which took place at what was an otherwise immensely positive and successful community event. To discharge a firearm in a calculated act of violence at or near a venue crammed with innocent bystanders is beyond despicable. My heart goes out to those traumatized by the incident. 

We all have friends and family that were at the rodeo performance at the time of the shooting. I was absolutely terrified when I heard what had occurred.” Sunday afternoon, on the final day of Williams Lake Stampede, two people were injured and a third apprehended following what the RCMP describe as a “public shooting” on the festival grounds. The brazen act of violence occurred just a short distance from the near-capacity grandstands. One of the victims of the shooting was an innocent bystander. The individual who carried out the attack, as well as the intended target, are both well known to the RCMP and WLFN Law Enforcement. 

“Enough is enough,” adds Williams Lake First Nation Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars. “As a community we need to work together to take action and root out as many of these serious offenders as possible. I’m immensely proud of my community and my connection to this city, but this small group of criminals is like a dark and deadly cloud swirling overhead. 

To the people who are participating in these criminal acts, if you need help and want to change your life, we are here for you. If you’re suffering from some form of trauma or having difficulty making your way in the world, then we want to help. If, however, you choose to reject this offer of support and insist on continuing down a destructive path, we will do everything we can to see that you are locked up and put in a place where you can’t harm others. I’m calling on the City of Williams Lake, other First Nations, and governments of BC and Canada to develop a definitive action plan. I never want to see another incident like this in our community, and WLFN intends to do everything we can to ensure that it doesn’t.”

City of WL thankful for efforts of Stampede Association & RCMP following Sunday rodeo incident

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake commends the efforts of the Williams Lake Stampede Association board of directors, its announcer and volunteers, medics and the Williams Lake RCMP for a quick and effective response to Sunday’s targeted shooting incident behind the grandstand during the Williams Lake Stampede’s final performance.

“It’s extremely disappointing and unfortunate that this senseless incident has thrown a shadow over the return of the Williams Lake Stampede following a two-year hiatus and what was such an incredible weekend for the entire community,” said Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb. 

“We are so thankful that the thousands in attendance were evacuated from the rodeo grounds in a calm and orderly manner. Our hats go off to all involved who ensured everyone’s safety. We can only hope those responsible for this criminal activity are dealt with appropriately by the justice system.”

The City of Williams Lake will continue to share information as it becomes available. Although not an exhaustive list, resources offering support are available at:

• Interior Crisis Line Network: 1.888.353.2273
• Canadian Mental Health Association Cariboo-Chilcotin Branch: 250.398.8220
• Suicide Help Line: 1.800.353.2273
• Mental Health Support: 310.6789
• KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line: 1.800.588.8717
• Community Crisis Response Team: 250.305.8496
• Interior Health-Mental Health and Substance Use: 250.392.1483