Community in Mourning: RCMP Hunt Suspects in Fatal Big Island Lake Shooting

Published on: January 1, 2026

Community in Mourning: RCMP Hunt Suspects in Fatal Big Island Lake Shooting

A Saskatchewan community is reeling after a violent shooting on the Big Island Lake Cree Nation left one young man dead and three others wounded. As the search for two armed suspects enters its third day, local leaders are calling for an end to the cycle of violence.

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Table of Contents

The Victim: A Life Cut Short

Family members have identified the deceased as 31-year-old Neil Wahpistikwan. His father, Larry, shared a heartbreaking tribute, noting that Neil had recently turned his life around, moving away from past gang involvement to focus on his family.

“He was a good person with a big heart,” Larry Wahpistikwan said. “We lost a young man who was trying to do better.”

The Investigation & Manhunt

The incident triggered a widespread Dangerous Person Alert on Tuesday, December 30, which was later lifted after police determined there was no immediate, ongoing threat to the general public. However, the suspects remain a high priority for law enforcement.

The Suspects: Two individuals were seen fleeing the scene on an ATV. They are considered armed and dangerous.
The Injuries: Three other victims are currently recovering in the hospital. Their injuries are described as serious but stable.
Security Measures: In response to the tragedy, the First Nation has established manned checkpoints at all entrances and doubled its security patrols.

Root Causes and Community Response

Band Manager Geoff Sandfly noted that while the community has made strides in safety—including the installation of over 200 security cameras—the shooting occurred in a “blind spot.” Sandfly pointed to broader systemic issues fueling such tragedies, including:

High unemployment rates.
The continued influx of crystal meth into the community.
Lingering gang presence.

Sandfly observed that the tragedy has sparked a shift in the community, with more members coming forward to report suspicious activity to authorities: “They’re getting sick and tired of it,” he stated.