AMC and AFN Manitoba Offer Condolence in the Tragic Passing of Chief of Police Doug Palson
January 8, 2025
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg – With heavy hearts, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) and the Assembly of First Nations Manitoba Office (AFN Manitoba) extend deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Manitoba First Nations Police Service Chief of Police Doug Palson, following the devastating house fire that tragically claimed his life earlier today.
Chief Palson’s unwavering commitment to public safety and dedication to the communities served by the Manitoba First Nations Police Service were markers of his good leadership. In his own words, the vision he aspired to was, “Be safe. Be Kind. And take care of each other.” His passing is an incredible loss to his family, the police service, and the ten First Nations that he served with such pride and respect. His contributions will be remembered for generations to come.
AMC Acting Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy shared, “The passing of Chief Doug Palson is a profound loss for our First Nations and the Manitoba First Nations Police Service. Chief Palson’s passion for justice, his leadership, and his love for the people he served will never be forgotten. On behalf of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, I send our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and all those mourning this heartbreaking loss.”
AFN Manitoba Regional Chief Willie Moore expressed similar sentiments, stating, “Chief Doug Palson exemplified what it means to serve with integrity and courage. His dedication to protecting and supporting our First Nations will leave a lasting legacy. During this difficult time, we stand with the Manitoba First Nations Police Service and all the communities impacted by this tragic loss. Our hearts are with Chief Palson’s family and colleagues as they navigate through their grief.”
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and the AFN Manitoba Office extend their gratitude to the Portage la Prairie RCMP, the Manitoba RCMP, and the Office of the Fire Commissioner for their continued efforts as investigations into this tragedy unfold. In these challenging days ahead, we remain united in our support for the Manitoba First Nations Police Service and all those affected.
Chief Doug Palson will forever be remembered as a passionate leader, a devoted public servant, and a cherished member of our communities. May he rest in peace.
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For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com
About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
The AMC was formed in 1988 by the Chiefs in Manitoba to advocate on issues that commonly affect First Nations in Manitoba. AMC is an authorized representative of all 63 First Nations in Manitoba with a total of more than 172,000 First Nations citizens in the province, accounting for approximately 12 percent of the provincial population. AMC represents a diversity of Anishinaabe, Nehetho / Ininew, Anisininew, Denesuline, and Dakota Oyate peoples.