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First Nation in mourning after fire claims five lives

Chief says Northwestern community  'in utter disbelief as every community member is connected and impacted'
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Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation is located about 600 kilometres north of Thunder Bay. (Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation Flickr)

KITCHENUHMAYKOOSIB INNINUWUG FIRST NATION, Ont. -- Five people are dead after a Thursday morning fire in the remote Northwestern Ontario First Nation community.

A statement released early afternoon on behalf of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation confirmed the casualties, though identities of the victims have not been released.

"We are in utter disbelief as every community member is connected and impacted," Chief Donny Morris said in a statement. "Today, our community mourns this tragic loss."

Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation is located about 600 kilometres north of Thunder Bay. The statement said more information will be released as additional details become available.

Nishnawbe Aski Nation officials said they have arranged for a team of crisis support workers to be sent to the community earlier Thursday. 

“We were saddened to learn of the tragedy this morning and our prayers are with the victims, their families and the entire community during this difficult time. This is a devastating loss for the community. We have assured Chief and Council that we will support them in any way possible as they grieve in the days and weeks ahead,” Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler said in a written statement. 

Mushkegowuk Council Grand Chief Jonathan Solomon also offered condolences. 

“On behalf of the Mushkegowuk Council, Council of Chiefs and our citizens, we would like to express our sincere condolences to the community, the families and to the leadership of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug,” Solomon said.

Kenora MP Bob Nault released a statement expressing condolences with friends and families of those lost in the fire.

“When something like this happens in a community, it affects everyone, including those in nearby communities," Nault said in a statement. 

“As we continue to mourn the lives of those lost, I offer my support in this time of unbelievable grief. In the coming days, I know community members will bring strength and support to each other as they work to overcome this tragedy.”

Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath and Kiiwetinoong MPP Sol Mamakwa said they join in grieving the tragic deaths.

"Our thoughts and our hearts are with the surviving family members, their friends, and the community during this difficult time," the written statement said.

"We express our deepest condolences to everyone impacted by this tragic loss. We hope they find solace and strength in community, and feel an outpouring of love from across the province as they grieve together.”

A crowdfunding campaign has been established, with a goal of $10,000 to help cover travel costs for family members, food and shelter for volunteers and funeral costs.


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