The peaceful community of Hollow Water First Nation is reeling after a violent mass stabbing early Thursday morning left one young woman dead, multiple people injured, and the suspect deceased following a subsequent crash. Authorities, families, and residents are grappling with the shock of the tragic events.
Victims Identified
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
RCMP confirmed that the deceased victim is 18-year-old Marina Free Simard, the sister of the suspect. Another victim, Jenny Isabel Bushie, the suspect’s mother and Marina’s relative, was also attacked. A third victim, Michael Raven, sustained serious injuries but is reported to be awake, conscious, and speaking. Raven’s children, Jordan Hamilton and Christy Williams, described the ordeal as terrifying and traumatic.
“The community is all shaken up from it. It is not something that happens in Hollow Water,” Williams said. “This is scary for everybody. This incident doesn’t sum up Hollow Water.”
Emergency Response and Multiple Injuries
At least eight people, ranging in age from 18 to 60, were injured during the attack. Six victims were transported by road to hospitals in Winnipeg, while two critically injured patients were airlifted by STARS air ambulance. The Health Sciences Centre activated a Code Orange alert, a mass casualty protocol, which was later cleared after patients were stabilized.
Shared Health expressed condolences to the victims and their families:
“We were alerted to a mass casualty event on Hollow Water First Nation this morning. Multiple patients were brought in with varying levels of acuity. Our thoughts are with the victims, patients, families, and loved ones.”
Suspect Confirmed Dead
RCMP identified the suspect as Tyrone Blake Freeman Simard, who died following a serious vehicle collision with a responding RCMP officer. The officer, a woman, sustained serious injuries but is expected to make a full recovery. Police emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to public safety. Highway 304, south of Black River First Nation, was temporarily closed as investigators worked at the scene.
Community in Shock
Hollow Water First Nation, located approximately 160 kilometres northeast of Winnipeg, is known for its close-knit and peaceful nature. Community members, leaders, and elders have been mobilizing to provide support, with vigils and crisis teams assisting residents in coping with grief and trauma.
“This tragedy does not define us,” a community member said. “We are standing together to support one another, to comfort the families who are suffering, and to begin healing as a community.”
Ongoing Investigation
RCMP continue to investigate the incident and will hold a press conference in Winnipeg to provide further details. Authorities emphasized that the priority is ensuring victims receive proper care and families have the support they need.
The Hollow Water First Nation stabbings stand as a stark reminder of the sudden and devastating impact of violence on small communities. As the investigation continues, residents are uniting in resilience and mourning, determined to support one another through the tragedy.
Rest in peace, Marina Free Simard. The community remembers your life and mourns your loss.