On July 17 at 2:11 a.m. the Fort St. James RCMP responded to a report of a stabbing on the Tl’azt’en Nation (Tachie) Reserve which is located approximately 65 km West of Fort St. James.
On route to the call officers intercepted family members of the victim, a 31 year old Tachie resident, who were transporting him to the nearest hospital. Officers were advised of the suspect’s name and family members were advised to carry on to meet with the ambulance while one of the officers followed the family vehicle.
Upon attendance to the hospital, the victim was pronounced deceased and the North District Major Crime Unit (ND MCU) has taken care of the investigation.
The suspect, a 33 year old Tachie resident was taken into police custody. It is believed the two individuals involved knew each other and the community is not at risk.
Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact the Fort St James RCMP at 250-996-8269.
As required by the Police Act, the Independent Investigations Office (IIO. BC) has been notified and they are assessing the matter as it relates to police officers’ actions and the medical assistance provided to the now deceased victim.
In order to protect the integrity of this and the IIO concurrent assessment, no further information will be released at this time.