(January 19, 2026 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief expressed her profound sorrow and solidarity with Tobique First Nation (Neqotkuk) and the family of Bronson Paul following the tragic shooting by police, which resulted in Bronson’s death.
“This is a devastating loss, and our hearts go out to the family of Bronson Paul, his loved ones, and the entire Tobique First Nation during this time of profound grief,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Every First Nations life matters, and when a life is lost during a police interaction, communities deserve answers, transparency, and accountability. The AFN supports the people of Tobique First Nation in their calls for action, including a full, impartial, and transparent investigation by the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT). We call for urgent action to address systemic issues that contribute to unequal and deadly outcomes for First Nations people in interactions with police services. It is not clear why Tobique First Nation’s council, outreach team and tribal security were not engaged as they have experience dealing with these matters and, when necessary, de-escalating. There are too many instances where First Nations peoples in Canada have lost their lives in police interactions. We stand with the people of Tobique First Nation, and extend our deepest condolences to Bronson’s family, friends, and all those mourning his loss.”
On Sunday, Jan 18, 2026, RCMP shot and killed Bronson Paul on Neqotkuk, also known as Tobique First Nation. Chief Ross Perley has called for the closure of the RCMP detachment on the First Nations territory.
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
For more information, please contact:
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]