Canada is reeling after at least 10 people were stabbed to death and a further 15 were hospitalised in a spree of attacks on Sunday.
The stabbings took place across 13 locations in James Smith Cree Nation and the village of Weldon in the central province of Saskatchewan.
Police say that more victims may yet present themselves to hospital for treatment and warned people that the two suspects, Damien Sanderson and Myles Sanderson, are still at large and thought to be travelling by car.
"They are considered armed and dangerous,” the Royal Canadian Mounted Police warned.
“If you see the suspects or their vehicle, do not approach them, immediately leave the area and call 911."
Update #5 for Dangerous Person Alert issued by Melfort RCMP: #RCMPSK received a report the suspects may traveling in the Arcola Ave area around 11:45 a.m. in Regina, SK in a black, Nissan Rogue with SK license 119 MPI. pic.twitter.com/dYlVTmP1CL
— RCMP Saskatchewan (@RCMPSK) September 4, 2022
A state of emergency has been declared in James Smith Cree Nation and police checkpoints have been set up across the province, with officers checking the ID of drivers and passengers alike.
Around 1,000 people live James Smith Cree Nation and nearly 200 in Weldon. The two communities are a roughly three and a half hour drive north of the provincial capital of Regina.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted that, “The attacks in Saskatchewan today are horrific and heart breaking. I’m thinking of those who have lost a loved one and of those who were injured.”
He added, “As this is an unfolding situation, I encourage everyone in the area to listen to the advice of law enforcement to take shelter and follow the proper precautions.”
The Premier of Saskatchewan, Scott Moe, said, “There are no words to adequately describe the pain and loss caused by this senseless violence. All of Saskatchewan grieves with the victims and their families.”
Main image: RCMP Royal Canadian Mounted Police vehicle.
