Based on coverage from The Globe and Mail, CBC, CTV, CP24, paNOW, and the BBC.
In the early hours of Thursday morning, the tranquil community of Hollow Water First Nation, nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg, was shattered by a horrific act of violence. An 18-year-old woman, identified by community members as Marina Simard, was killed, and her brother, 26-year-old Tyrone Simard, was identified as the suspect. The tragic incident left seven others injured, with ages ranging from 18 to 60, and sent shockwaves through the small Anishinaabe community.
The sequence of events began at 3:44 a.m. when a First Nation safety officer reported an assault to the Manitoba RCMP. By 6 a.m., officers responding to a call about a stabbing discovered multiple victims across two residences. The situation escalated when Tyrone fled in a stolen vehicle, only to collide with an RCMP cruiser on Provincial Road 304. The crash resulted in his death and left the officer critically injured, though she is expected to recover.
The community is grappling with the aftermath of this "senseless act of violence," as described by RCMP Assistant Commissioner Scott McMurchy. The incident has left residents in shock, with many struggling to comprehend how such violence could erupt in their close-knit community. Hollow Water Chief Larry Barker, visibly emotional, urged his community to come together in support and prayer, emphasizing the deep personal connections to the victims.
The timing of the attack is eerily coincidental, occurring on the third anniversary of the James Smith Cree Nation stabbings in Saskatchewan, which claimed 11 lives. However, RCMP Superintendent Rob Lasson assured that there is no evidence to suggest that Tyrone Simard was inspired by those events. Instead, he highlighted that the RCMP's response was informed by lessons learned from the Saskatchewan tragedy, underscoring the importance of preparedness in handling such crises.
In the aftermath, the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg declared a code orange to manage the influx of patients. Dr. Shawn Young, the hospital's chief operating officer, noted that two victims required immediate surgery, while others were treated for serious injuries. The hospital's swift response was a testament to their readiness, despite the grim nature of the situation.
Among the injured is Michael Raven, who was attacked in his home. His children, Jordan Hamilton and Christy Williams, recounted how their father was stabbed in the lung while asleep. "The community is all shaken up from it," Williams said, capturing the collective disbelief and fear that now grips Hollow Water.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew praised the bravery of the injured RCMP officer, calling her actions heroic for stopping a potentially larger tragedy. He also expressed his condolences to the community and pledged to visit Hollow Water to offer support.
As the investigation continues, the RCMP remains on the ground, ensuring there are no additional victims and piecing together the events leading up to the attack. The community, meanwhile, is left to navigate the emotional aftermath, drawing on their resilience and unity to heal.
In a time meant for back-to-school preparations, Hollow Water is instead mourning a young life lost and supporting those injured. The sacred fire lit outside the local healing centre symbolizes the community's strength and commitment to healing together, even as they face the daunting task of rebuilding their sense of safety and peace.
Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3 | Source 4 | Source 5 | Source 6
