An independent police oversight body is currently investigating the death of a man who was shot and killed by RCMP officers while responding to a domestic disturbance in Neqotkuk First Nation in northwestern New Brunswick on Sunday evening. The victim, Bronson Paul, a member of the Neqotkuk community, became the fourth Indigenous person to be fatally shot by police in New Brunswick since 2020.
Authorities from the Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) are present in the Neqotkuk community, formerly known as Tobique, which is situated approximately 180 kilometres northwest of Fredericton. Neqotkuk First Nation Chief Ross Perley, who knew Paul personally, expressed his grief, describing Paul as a father and a friend who will be deeply missed.
Preliminary details from SIRT indicate that the RCMP responded to a residence following a domestic disturbance call and encountered a man inside the house armed with a weapon. Despite deploying a Taser that proved ineffective, another officer resorted to using their service weapon, resulting in the fatal shooting of the man.
Following the tragic incident, condolences have poured in from communities across Canada. Chief Perley emphasized the need for transparency and justice for Paul’s family while highlighting the closure of the local RCMP detachment due to safety concerns for both community members and law enforcement officers.
The Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick also addressed the broader issue of systemic racism leading to the disproportionate and unnecessary deaths of Indigenous people at the hands of police. SIRT, committed to a thorough and transparent investigation, acknowledged the absence of Indigenous representation within their team and expressed plans to enhance diversity and inclusivity.
In response to the community’s mourning, a sacred fire has been lit at the Paul Pyres Community Hall for those seeking solace, with mental health support services made available within the community and schools. Premier Susan Holt extended condolences and affirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating a fair and urgent investigation process.
Chief Perley reiterated the community’s long-term aspirations for an independent peacekeeping force and policing services, along with a comprehensive report on systemic racism against Indigenous populations in New Brunswick. Band security officials noted that the regular RCMP officers and band security personnel were off-duty at the time of the incident due to its occurrence after standard working hours.