APTN National News
A cabin fire claimed the lives of five Cree hunters from the northern Quebec community of Mistissini Wednesday.
“We were shocked and devastated to learn about the tragic accident resulting in the loss of five of our Cree youth in a fire while hunting,” said Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come in a statement.
Coon Come identified the men as David Jimiken, Emmett Coonishish, Chiiwetin Coonishish, Kevin Loon and Charlie Gunner.
“I extend our deepest condolences to the families and to the community of Mistissini who must all now find a source of compassion and strength to endure this terrible tragedy and to support one another in a journey of healing,” he said. “Their loss is a loss for the Cree Nation and we mourn with them.”
It wasn’t immediately known what caused the fire.
A Facebook page dedicated to Mistissini youth described Chiiwetin Coonishish as being “very passionate about the cultural aspect of the Youth Council and always made sure that culture activities were being done. He was a very good hunter and respected the land.”
Mistissni is a Cree First Nation about 800 km north of Montreal.
