Photographs of those killed during the James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon mass casualty homicides which occurred on September 4, 2022, are on display as the Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes provides a preliminary timeline presentation of the events during a media event in Melfort, Sask., Thursday, April 27, 2023. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Liam Richards)

By CJME; Shane Clausing

One Year Later

James Smith Cree Nation announces events marking one year since mass stabbings

Sep 2, 2023 | 2:07 PM

Monday marks one year since the mass stabbing casualties that took place in James Smith Cree Nation and in the Village of Weldon.

The events last year shook a community and province as Myles Sanderson killed 11 people and injured 17 others. He would run from police for several days causing one of the largest manhunts and deadliest days in Saskatchewan history.

Myles was eventually caught on several days later on a highway near Rosthern and died in police custody.

To help remember those lost in the tragic events of that day, the reserve will be hosting several public events so people can show their respects and remember those lost.

Today and Sunday at 1 p.m., a powwow is being held at the powwow grounds of James Smith Cree Nation. A drone show is also scheduled to take place from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. inside the chuckwagon racetrack on Saturday and at the soccer field near the school during the same time on Sunday.

Riderville

Riders Depth being tested in stretch run for playoffs

3h ago

Election 2024

Moe makes campaign stop in P.A. to talk tax benefits

6h ago

Young - Sask Party

Sask Party's Colleen Young seeks re-election in Lloydminster

6h ago

Monday’s events will mostly be held in private as the community comes together to remember and heal.

A pipe ceremony will be held at 8 a.m. inside the tipi at the James Smith Cree Nation Cultural Grounds.

The pipe ceremony will then be followed by a memorial service at St. Stephens Anglican Church. It will be led by Arch Deacon, Dr. Wilfred Sanderson & Reverend Dr. Theresa Sanderson.

The Minister of Indigenous Services Canada Patty Hajdu, is expected to attend the events.

Health care staff are dedicating a gazebo to their fallen co–worker, the late Gloria Burns at 1 p.m., and a community barbecue will be held from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the James Smith Cree Nation health centre.

A candlelight vigil is planned to happen at 7:30 p.m. in front of the Bernard Constant School.

There will be speakers, prayers, and drummers performing.

Media will only be allowed on the James Smith Cree Nation from 12:15 p.m. until 2 p.m. Anyone found in the community after hours or who is not media will be asked to leave as First Nations are private land.