Due to a rise in violent incidents in the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) and Deschambault Lake areas, a State of Emergency for the Pelican Narrows and Deschambault Lake communities has been declared.“The constant sound of gunfire has left our members in a constant state of concern and distress due to the relentless violence,” said Chief Karen Bird of PBCN in a press release.Tristan Custer, 27, from Deschambault Lake, appeared in Provincial Court on October 16, facing second-degree murder charges related to the death of a 17-year-old youth from Deschambault Lake that occurred on October 1. On October 10, Custer was arrested in Prince Albert.The PBCN said because of these violent events and other similar incidents, there has been a significant increase in the need for community services, especially in healthcare.The PBCN leadership stated the healthcare sector faces challenges because healthcare professionals worry about their safety. The safety issue has caused some healthcare services to stop for now.They also mention that historically, PBCN has had one of the highest crime rates in Canada and has dealt with social and economic difficulties.The PBCN said “they urgently need resources, funding and support to guarantee a safe and secure environment.”
