The chief of an Alberta First Nation called on the power of prayer to help his community heal from another fatal car crash.
“Our community came together last time and our communities are going to come together this time,” said Vernon Saddleback of Samson Cree, south of Edmonton.
Saddleback confirmed five people who died Tuesday had ties to Samson and Ermineskin – two of four first nations that comprise the Maskwacis region, about 95 kilometres south of Edmonton.
However, the victims were living in the nearby town of Wetaskiwin.
Three sisters from one family and a couple with a young son were killed when two vehicles collided outside Millet, Alta., at about 4:15 pm MT June 5. They were all in the same vehicle.
A person in the other vehicle was treated for minor injuries and released.
Police have not yet spoken about the accident.
“I do want to ask everyone out there who is watching, who is listening or who is going to read this, if you could pray for our communities,” Saddleback told reporters Wednesday.
“And pray for those families involved.”
The three sisters were Dominique Soosay Northwest, 19; Cheyanne Soosay Northwest, 22; and Latesha Soosay Northwest, 25; from Samson Cree First Nation.
Cheyanne and Latesha had five children between them.
Wetaskiwin RCMP said Wednesday they were still investigating the cause of the crash that also claimed the lives of Anthony Swampy, 30, and his girlfriend, Terrelle Minde – whose age was not available.
Saddleback expressed shock at the heavy loss.
“Tough to lose one family member but five from a community… words can’t express,” he said at a news conference.
Police said the collision occurred on Highway 2A at Township Road 472, about five kilometres south of the town of Millet.
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to each and everyone in the community and I lift you all up in prayer. I especially prayers for the families left behind . May God please provide strength and comfort ❤️deepest condolences
Where is the go fund me? National coverage? Why isn’t Canada stopping to mourn? Has Tim’s made a cookie to raise money yet? Oh yeah, they are native.
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to each and everyone in the community and I lift you all up in prayer. I especially prayers for the families left behind . May God please provide strength and comfort ❤️deepest condolences
Where is the go fund me? National coverage? Why isn’t Canada stopping to mourn? Has Tim’s made a cookie to raise money yet? Oh yeah, they are native.
My heart hurts to hear of this tragedy. And I pray now for the remaining family that Adonai will comfort and heal the grieving. As a mother I understand the loss of family and the pain that lingers. Shalom and be blessed.
My heart hurts to hear of this tragedy. And I pray now for the remaining family that Adonai will comfort and heal the grieving. As a mother I understand the loss of family and the pain that lingers. Shalom and be blessed.
My sincere condolences going out to all families. I couldn’t imagine the sadness they are going through. My heart is with you n may the creator guide everyone through this difficult time. Staying strong for a good friend. Hiy hiy merci cho
Prayers for all the families,children and communities on their lost.
SO sorry prayer sent to all the family and friend my they all rent in peace
Sending prayers and blessings to families and whoever new them so sorry
My sincere condolences going out to all families. I couldn’t imagine the sadness they are going through. My heart is with you n may the creator guide everyone through this difficult time. Staying strong for a good friend. Hiy hiy merci cho
Prayers for all the families,children and communities on their lost.
Very sad my heart breaks Prayers to all at this time
Condolence to all the family for the loss of these beautiful young people…. Prayers for all….❤
SO sorry prayer sent to all the family and friend my they all rent in peace
Sending prayers and blessings to families and whoever new them so sorry
My heart cries for the people of Samson Cree Nation. My condolences to the families and may the creator wrap you all in his healing arms and hug you all.
Condolences to the families and the communities,hugs and prayers to all involved in this tragic accident ❤️
my heart goes out to the families… Creator be with you
Very sad my heart breaks Prayers to all at this time
Condolence to all the family for the loss of these beautiful young people…. Prayers for all….❤
Condolences to all families destroyed from this tragic accident
The families have my Prayers and condolences for healing!
So sad see young people died feel for there family in loss you young daughter&friends
So so sad. Condolences to familys and friends. Creator give you strength in this horrific loss. We send up good smoke from Misipawistik Cree Nation in Manitoba.
My heart cries for the people of Samson Cree Nation. My condolences to the families and may the creator wrap you all in his healing arms and hug you all.
Condolences to the families and the communities,hugs and prayers to all involved in this tragic accident ❤️
my heart goes out to the families… Creator be with you
Condolences to all families destroyed from this tragic accident
The families have my Prayers and condolences for healing!
So sad see young people died feel for there family in loss you young daughter&friends
So so sad. Condolences to familys and friends. Creator give you strength in this horrific loss. We send up good smoke from Misipawistik Cree Nation in Manitoba.