The AMC Calls for Transparency in the Investigation Involving a train that hit and killed three men and left one man fighting for his life
September 11, 2020
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
alexpapineau
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) would like to express its sincerest condolences to the families of the three men from Sandy Bay First Nation, Waywayseecappo First Nation and Dauphin, Manitoba who tragically lost their lives on Tuesday, September 8, 2020. Further, our prayers are with the family of the fourth individual who is currently fighting for his life in the hospital.
“I extend my deepest condolences and support to the families and Nations of those who have been impacted by this most tragic incident,” stated AMC Grand Chief Arlen Dumas.
On September 8, 2020, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), were called to a crash at a CP Rail crossing near Highway 16. The four male occupants of the vehicle were on their way to work at the time of the accident.
“After the accident, the families received little to no communication surrounding the death of their loved ones. This has caused a lot of misinformation and unanswered questions to these grieving families that need answers. To add to a very difficult situation, the families are being told that it will take 10-14 days before an autopsy can be completed. This has been particularly hard on the families as they now need to wait even longer to honour and memorialize their loved ones.”
The AMC is calling on all parties involved with matters pertaining to the investigation: RCMP, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, CP Rail and Work Place Health and Safety to have a clear, open, honest and timely communication with the families as they seek answers.
“Our First Nations leadership are in support of these three families as they continue to seek answers surrounding the death of their loved ones,” continued Grand Chief Dumas. “We want assurances that there are measures of accountability in place, to ensure there is a proper and timely investigation underway and that the families will have answers sooner rather than later.”