One person is confirmed dead in Fort Smith, and local police are asking residents to stay in place.
“Fort Smith RCMP responded to a number of firearms related complaints in the community of Fort Smith,” reads a news release.
Police have also identified a vehicle they believe a suspect is travelling in.
It is a 2019 white Ford Explorer with a GNWT logo on the side doors.
Police are advising anyone that sees a vehicle matching the description to call 911 immediate.
The suspect is still considered armed and dangerous.
Buildings lock down
Several locations in the community have locked down following the recommendation to shelter in place.
Salt River First Nation posted to its Facebook page to say its office as well as the Petro-Canada and Tim Hortons is locked to the public.
The municipal government posted to say access is limited at the communication and recreation centre, and the Mary Kaeser and Centennial Arena are locked. Later Friday afternoon, the town said it would update the situation through its emergency alert system. Residents can sign up for that system here.
The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority says the health centre has locked its doors. It also posted to Facebook saying, “Scheduled appointments may be cancelled, emergency or urgent care is available.”
Several other stores and facilities have reportedly closed.
NNSL has reported parents picking up children from Joseph B. Tyrell Elementary School, and that police have cordoned off two houses in the community.
More to come.
Updated Mar. 4 at 1 p.m. with closures in the community.
