RCMP authorities in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, have revealed that two men from Alberta are facing multiple charges following a shooting incident over the weekend that resulted in three individuals getting hurt. The town of Fort Smith was thrown into chaos early Saturday morning when gunshots were fired outside Dirty O’Fergie’s bar on McDougal Road around 2 a.m., prompting a 13-hour lockdown. The injured parties had to receive medical treatment outside the region, with all individuals currently in stable condition and expected to recover, although one victim has sustained serious injuries.
One suspect, Sheldon Tan, aged 22 and hailing from Calgary, has been charged with three counts of aggravated assault, as well as assault with a weapon and discharging a firearm with intent. The shooting incident was reported to have transpired following a confrontation where an individual deployed bear spray outside the bar. Another individual from Alberta, who also used bear spray, has been arrested and charged with assault with a weapon and weapon possession. Both accused individuals have been brought before the court and are currently in custody.
Additionally, a third individual was arrested in connection to the incident but has since been released without charges. The shooting incident coincided with the annual Fireweed Festival, which was temporarily halted due to the lockdown but resumed after the restriction was lifted.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with RCMP urging witnesses to come forward with any information, photos, or videos related to the incident. Fort Smith Mayor Dana Fergusson has echoed this call for cooperation, emphasizing the importance of providing evidence to assist in the investigation process. Despite the unsettling events, Fergusson commended the community for banding together once the situation was under control and the festival recommenced, highlighting the unity and support displayed by residents during challenging times.