Weldon mayor grateful for support, requests community be left alone to grieve

By Nigel Maxwell

The mayor of Weldon says the tragic events of this past weekend have shaken the community to its core.

Among the 10 people killed in Sunday’s attacks was 77-year-old Wes Petterson. Outside the Weldon residence lays a collection of flowers. Police have also set up a number of pylons blocking off the driveway.

In a prepared statement, Ron Clayton said the community appreciates the outpouring of sympathy it has received, adding the community is also asking for understanding as it grieves.

“We are thinking of all those who have lost a loved one and the many who are injured,” he said.

Clayton requested all inquiries be directed to the RCMP.

On Tuesday, the small community was still crawling with media from all parts of the country, a very uncommon and noticeable sight for local residents.

“Our residents are grieving and we respectfully ask the media to stop knocking their doors or trying to approach them,” Clayton said.

Nearby communities have also been offering their support. A candlelight vigil was held Monday night at Muskoday First Nation.

The Tiny Taste of Heaven Bakery & Bistro in Kinistino displaying a sign of solidarity (Brent Bosker/650 CKOM)

On behalf of the Town of Kinistino, Mayor Mark Powalinsky offered his thoughts, prayers and condolences to the families, friends and communities of the victims of this past weekend’s shocking and horrific attacks.

“I also want to thank the Police Authorities in their efforts to apprehend the attackers and protect the public. I would like to thank all of the other individuals, professionals and agencies involved in the investigation of this calamitous series of events and the treatment of the numerous victims,” he said.

Powalinsky urged everyone to listen for updates and follow all instructions from the authorities as they try to get through this tragedy together.

“There are no words that are capable of adequately acknowledging the pain, suffering and loss caused by this type of senseless violence,” he said.

Muskoday on lockdown

In response to what Chief and Council are calling an active threat, and the possible sighting of the suspect, Myles Sanderson, on Tuesday afternoon on the James Smith Cree Nation, the nearby community of Muskoday First Nation went into lockdown.

Local security and the fire department are manning all the entrances. The Community Store is open with security presence if needed. All other services are shut down for the time being.

Chief Ava Bear told paNOW they expect to remain this way until Sanderson is apprehended.