A person is dead following a house fire on the Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation during the afternoon of Sept. 8.
Coun. Kevin Seesequasis said in a statement that their fire crews responded appropriately and the blaze was quickly contained. The home sustained minor damage throughout.
“Sadly, I can also confirm that an individual perished in the house fire,” Seesequasis said in the statement.
“I wish to extend my condolences to the affected family.”
Rosthern RCMP believe a 16-year-old girl was the only person in the home when the fire started.
However, the identity of the deceased is expected to be confirmed after an autopsy by the Saskatchewan coroner’s service on Sept. 10.
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The cause of the fire and circumstances leading up to the blaze are under investigation, according to a police press release. It is being conducted with the RCMP major crimes unit north and forensic identification section.
Any band member affected by the tragedy can contact 639-212-7028 and a support worker can arrange a home visit, Seesequasis said. Willow Cree Health Services is also open for one-on-one mental health supports.
Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation is approximately 80 kilometres north of Saskatoon.