Big River FN Man Found Guilty of Assaults with Shotgun

UPDATE: A man from Big River First Nation has been found guilty of multiple assaults, including a shocking incident where he shot a relative in the leg with a sawed-off shotgun. This urgent ruling, delivered by Judge J. Shiefner in Prince Albert Provincial Court, follows a tense four-day trial involving 11 witnesses.

The crimes began on September 19, 2023, when Tristen Whitefish, already under release conditions prohibiting firearm possession, engaged in a high-speed chase and subsequent shooting. Key testimony revealed that the violence stemmed from an argument over a dirt bike with his cousin, the shooting victim.

On September 18, Whitefish confronted the victim at a mobile home, where tensions escalated after he brandished a gun. Witnesses reported that Whitefish had returned to his truck to retrieve the firearm, threatening the victim and her family. Hours later, police were alerted to a gunshot victim lying on the ground outside the residence, suffering from a severe leg injury.

The victim, described as very pale and covered with a blanket, had a gunshot wound measuring approximately 10 inches by 4 inches. Thanks to a tourniquet applied by paramedics, his life was saved, but he faced serious risks due to the extent of his injuries.

In another alarming incident the following day, Whitefish was involved in a confrontation at his uncle’s home. Witnesses reported that he retrieved a shotgun from his vehicle and pointed it at his uncle, forcing children present to flee for safety.

Judge Schiefner found Whitefish guilty of numerous charges related to these violent incidents but acquitted him of one charge linked to an evasion from police. Sentencing for Whitefish is scheduled for November 3.

This case underscores the urgent issue of firearm-related violence within communities and raises questions about public safety and accountability. Authorities continue to stress the need for awareness and action in confronting such dangerous behaviors.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.