Community lockdown ordered in northern Quebec amid active shooter threat

A community-wide lockdown is in effect in Mistissini, a Cree Nation community in northern Quebec, as police search for an active shooter who remains at large, according to local officials.

“This is to inform all community members that the Council of the Cree Nation of Mistissini has authorized a community-wide lockdown due to an active gun shooter who remains at large,” the notice said at 11:07 p.m. local time Wednesday. “For everyone’s safety, all residents are required to remain indoors until further notice.”

Mistissini, a Cree Nation community of about 4,000 people, is located in northern Quebec, near the eastern shore of Lake Mistassini and roughly 300 kilometers (190 miles) north of Chibougamau.

A police department notice issued separately described an ongoing police intervention in the community and asked residents to stay inside and the public to avoid the area while officers address what was described as a potential threat.

The circumstances that led to the alert have not been released, and authorities have not identified the suspect or suspects.