Fatal Shooting on Big Island Lake Cree Nation
Authorities have released new details about a deadly shooting on Big Island Lake Cree Nation, located 320 kilometers northwest of Saskatoon, and are urging the public to provide information on a side-by-side vehicle linked to the incident.
On December 30, 2025, around 5:10 a.m. CST, multiple reports of gunshots prompted a swift response from officers at the Pierceland detachment. They first discovered an injured youth at one home, followed shortly by a second injured youth nearby. Both sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and received hospital treatment.
Discovery of Additional Victims
Investigators determined the two youths were together when shot by suspects in the side-by-side vehicle. Approximately 6 a.m., another shooting report led officers to a 31-year-old man suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts by police and emergency medical services, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Family members confirm the victim was Neil Wahpistikwan. At the same time, officers located a fourth victim—an adult man—receiving aid from EMS at a nearby residence. He was hospitalized after being shot alongside Wahpistikwan by the suspects.
The father of the slain man expressed grief, stating, “My family, they’re hurt right now.”
Vehicle Details and Public Appeal
Surveillance footage captured the white side-by-side with a black roof used by the suspects on the morning of December 30. Officials have shared video images of the all-terrain vehicle to aid identification.
Insp. Ashley St. Germaine, senior investigative officer with the homicide unit, emphasized the need for public cooperation: “People have information about this side-by-side, who was driving it and who was riding in it. They need to talk to police. I know some people are nervous about speaking to police. I urge you to sit down with our investigators and talk about it. They will listen to you.”
A dangerous persons alert was issued at 8:23 a.m. and lifted before 5 p.m. that day. Security monitored entry points in the following days, and investigators have revisited the community multiple times in recent weeks, with an increased police presence ongoing.
The Big Island Lake chief noted the heightened tension following the gunfire.
How to Help
Anyone with details about the vehicle, its occupants, or the investigation should contact authorities at 310-RCMP or submit an anonymous tip via Crime Stoppers.
