Residents of Inuvik, Fort McPherson, and Tsiigehtchic have been advised to remain indoors due to a threat posed by an active gunman. The RCMP issued a public alert via Alertable, indicating the presence of an armed individual who may be traveling in a burgundy or red Ford pickup truck.
People in these three communities in the Northwest Territories, linked by Highway 8, are urged to seek refuge in a secure location and exercise caution in allowing strangers into their homes. The alert also cautions against approaching any suspicious individuals or picking up hitchhikers.
Following reports of a shooting incident at the airport around 1 p.m., Inuvik mayor Peter Clarkson mentioned that a woman was injured and taken to the hospital. The whereabouts of the suspected shooter remain unknown, with law enforcement officers investigating the possibility of the individual fleeing down the highway.
As a precautionary measure, municipal facilities in Inuvik have been closed, along with most stores in the area. Clarkson emphasized that until the RCMP confirms the situation is safe, residents are advised to shelter in place for their own safety. Once the threat is neutralized or the suspect is apprehended, restrictions will be lifted.
The RCMP’s alert emphasizes the importance of reporting emergencies or any suspicious activities to 911, while advising against sharing details of police operations on social media platforms. Authorities have been contacted for further information on the ongoing situation.