Minister Ian Bushie Responds to Stabbing Incident in Hollow Water

A tragic stabbing incident shook the community of Hollow Water First Nation on March 15, 2024, prompting a swift response from local authorities and the community. Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures Minister Ian Bushie, who was at home during the event, expressed his shock upon learning that one of the victims had sought assistance from his mother.

Bushie recounted the moment he received the news, stating, “I found out when my mother called me, because one of the victims went to her house. That’s how close-knit we are, and how close this hit to home for me personally.” He noted that his mother informed him of the emergency situation, including the involvement of paramedics and police.

As the reality of the situation unfolded, Bushie’s immediate concern was for the safety of his family and the community. “Everybody kind of gets on their phones and connects who they can connect with,” he said. Witnessing the presence of emergency responders in the area provided some relief during what he described as “a very active situation.”

Hollow Water First Nation is located approximately 190 kilometers northeast of Winnipeg, on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg. The minister emphasized the importance of community during this challenging time, stating that families are coming together to support one another at the Health Sciences Centre, where several victims were taken for treatment.

“There’s a lot of families that are affected, and I think our thoughts and prayers go out to them,” Bushie remarked. He expressed a deep connection to his community, asserting, “Hollow Water is home, and it’s safe.” He recognized the efforts of local organizations and programs that contribute positively to the community, underscoring the resilience of its residents.

In light of the incident, Bushie reflected on the need for understanding the factors that led to such violence. “When things like this happen, of course it raises the question, ‘how did this happen?’” he said. He indicated that further assessments would be conducted in the coming days to better comprehend the underlying causes and to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Having recently addressed delegates at the Assembly of First Nations gathering in Winnipeg, Bushie reaffirmed his pride in being a member of the First Nation. “The residents are very proud of who they are, who we are and where we come from,” he said. He also highlighted the overwhelming support received from across Canada, noting, “It’s very uplifting to know that we really have the support of all First Nations, all these communities, but also all Manitobans and Canadians.”

As the community continues to cope with this tragedy, Bushie remains committed to fostering unity and healing among residents. His dedication to his community and his role as a leader will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.