A deadly shooting in Quebec First Nation reserve triggers a lockdown, chief says

MISTISSINI, Quebec — A First Nation reserve in northern Quebec is under lockdown after a deadly shooting there overnight, its chief said Thursday.

Chief Michael Petawabano of the Cree Nation of Mistissini issued a statement urging members of the community to stay in their homes and lock their doors as police investigate a shooting that has caused fatalities. He did not elaborate on the number of people killed.

He said travel in and out of the community is restricted and all public buildings and facilities are closed.

Petawabano said the lockdown will remain in place until law enforcement confirms it is safe to resume normal activities. Cree Nation of Mistissini has a listed population of about 4,200 people. The chief said the community is grieving for the lives lost and the families affected by the shooting.

Late Wednesday night, officials first announced the lockdown, saying there was an active shooter at large. Mistissini is a community located along the shore of Lake Mistassini, 600 kilometers (373 miles) northwest of Quebec City.