News Release
September 4, 2025

UBCIC Shares Deep Condolences with Hollow Water First Nation and Calls for an Immediate End to Violence

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/ Vancouver, B.C. – September 4, 2025) On September 4, 2025, Manitoba RCMP responded to a mass stabbing that occurred shortly before 8:30AM on Hollow Water First Nation, also known as Waanibiigaaw, located on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg in Treaty 5 Territory

The Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) expresses its deepest sympathies and condolences to Hollow Water First Nation, to the victims and loved ones affected by this devastating tragedy.

We encourage anyone with further information to come forward and speak with the RCMP, who remain on site conducting their investigation. On this day, which marks the three-year anniversary of the mass casualty on James Smith Cree Nation in northern Saskatchewan, the UBCIC renews its call for an immediate end to community-based violence and for governments to invest in the resources needed for Nations to advance their own community-led solutions.

“As First Nations leaders from across the country gather at the Assembly of First Nations 2025 Annual General Assembly in Winnipeg, Treaty 1 Territory, our hearts are with Hollow Water First Nation,” stated Chief Don Tom, UBCIC Vice-President, in attendance at the AFN AGA. “We must put an end to the violence impacting our communities. It is time for governments to listen, to provide real resources, and to support community-led solutions that foster safety, healing, and strength in our Nations.”

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Media inquiries:
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President, 250-490-5314
Chief Don Tom, Vice-President, 604-290-6083
Chief Marilyn Slett, Secretary-Treasurer, 250-957-7721

UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

For more information, please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca

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