Two shocking incidents involving police shootings have recently rattled the communities of Manitoba, raising serious questions about police methods, community safety, and the mental health situations of those involved.
The first incident occurred on November 24, 2024, when a confrontation escalated between Winnipeg police and a suspect during a retail theft initiative. This led to the fatal shooting of the suspect. According to reports, the situation escalated around 5:09 PM when one officer was stabbed in the throat, leading to the police response and subsequent gunfire. Witness footage shows officers demanding the suspect drop his weapon, but when he refused and advanced toward them, they were left with no alternative but to fire. The suspect was pronounced dead after being rushed to the hospital, and the injured officer, thankfully, was treated and remains stable.
Just over 14 hours earlier, another tragedy unfolded far north at Norway House Cree Nation. There, 17-year-old Elgyn Muskego was shot by Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers responding to reports of a disturbed youth allegedly armed with an edged weapon. The situation took place shortly after 1:45 AM. Witnesses recounted how Muskego, who was reportedly agitated, confronted police but did not comply with orders to drop the weapon. After moving closer to the officers, he was shot. According to the police, first aid was administered until paramedics arrived, but Muskego could not be saved.
The grief felt by Muskego’s family has heart-wrenchingly echoed across Norway House. His grandparents, Charles and Kathy Ettawacappo, described their grandson as loving and playful—a boy full of dreams who, tragically, had been battling challenges including mental health issues, stemming from the isolation of the pandemic. They recalled his love for the outdoors, ice fishing, and the bond he shared with his siblings. His grandparents couldn’t understand why lethal force was used. “There [was] two of them, and there's one little boy,” Charles stated, indicating trust could have been placed on other measures, such as non-lethal means like stun guns.
Community members have gathered to express their anger and frustration over these incidents. Many feel the police have overstepped their bounds, leading to fear instead of protecting and serving. Bryan Rowden, who considered Muskego family, shared his perspective about the increasing anxiety among the community toward those meant to safeguard them. Rowden lamented the loss, saying, “This is really ripping a hole through the hearts of everyone.” He and others highlighted the questions surrounding the appropriateness of the police’s response, especially viewed against the backdrop of mental health crises within Indigenous communities.
The local leadership is taking steps to respond to these painful incidents. The chief and council of Norway House Cree Nation announced plans to launch their own investigation, assuring the community of their commitment to holding the police accountable for their actions. They called for “justice” and explored declarations of states of emergency, seeking both support for the grieving families and measures addressing broader issues of drugs and violence plaguing the community. The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba has also stepped in to oversee the matter.
These incidents have ignited heated discussions about the relationship between the police and Indigenous communities. Some community members, like Jonathan Meikle, believe the answer lies in approaching such crises differently—seeking community-based resolutions rather than relying on police force. They argue for responses focused on de-escalation and mental health support, demanding systemic changes to prevent such tragedies.
Meanwhile, the province has announced the roll-out of body cameras for police officers, aimed at increasing transparency and accountability within law enforcement. Critics welcome this move but argue it needs to be coupled with community engagement strategies. Rowden, again, articulated the sentiments shared by many: “They come in, they leave. They don’t get involved.”
This haunting irony—of communities becoming fearful of those sworn to protect them—and these tragedies put forth urgent calls for reform, clear communication, and mutual respect between police forces and the communities they serve.
“He was just at the point of getting his life back on track,” said Kathy Ettawacappo, her voice heavy with heartbreak for her grandson who would graduate soon. “We didn't think we were going to lose him so young.” The enormity of these events resonates as families and communities navigate grief, loss, and the incessant need for safety as they call for answers and justice.
