(September 5, 2025 – Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak released the following statement today in response to the tragic events that took place yesterday in and around Hollow Water First Nation in Treaty One Territory.
“On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations, I offer my prayers and condolences to the people of Hollow Water First Nation and their loved ones,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Two lives have been lost, and six individuals are in hospital due to this senseless act. We are praying for healing and hope for all those affected. This tragedy is a sad reminder of the urgent need for action to ensure safety and security for First Nations citizens, for community-based, compassionate approaches that respond to our unique needs. During this difficult time, the AFN offers its full support to Chief Larry Barker and his community. We ask everyone to keep Hollow Water First Nation in their hearts.”
“Our thoughts are with Chief Barker and the entire community of Hollow Water at this difficult time,” said AFN Manitoba Regional Chief Willie Moore. “We are a close community of First Nations in Manitoba. We all feel the impacts of this tragedy and we all offer our sincere condolences and support. I want to thank the first responders and crisis team for their quick response. This incident happened at a time when leaders from across the country are gathered in Treaty One Territory to discuss the very issues that must be addressed to create safe and healthy communities. We will be taking action as First Nations and calling on governments to work with us for the sake of our people, our children. Today, our hearts are with the people of Hollow Water First Nation.”
Support is available for those affected by this tragedy. The Hope for Wellness Helpline offers support to all Indigenous Peoples. Counsellors are available by phone or online chat. This service is available in English and French, and, upon request, in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. The toll-free Help Line is 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at www.hopeforwellness.ca.
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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
[email protected]
343-630-1372 (mobile)
Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
[email protected]
613-292-0857 (mobile)