Tributes pour in for chief of police service believed to have died in house fire

Condolences have started pouring in for the chief of the Manitoba First Nations Police Service who is believed to have died in a house fire early Wednesday morning.

RCMP were called to a home in the Rural Municipality of Portage la Prairie that was confirmed as belonging to Chief Doug Palson.

The police service said in a statement it is believed remains found in the home belong to Palson.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The Southern Chiefs’ Organization says Palson passionately led the force in protecting the 10 First Nations it serves.

The Winnipeg Police Service posted on social media that Manitoba has lost a dedicated leader in law enforcement and Palson’s commitment to public safety will not be forgotten.

RCMP continue to investigate and have not said what caused the fire.

1:46 Winnipeg firefighters kick off 2025 with battle against blazes, frigid conditions