Hollow Water First Nation Community Mourns After Fatal Stabbing

Hollow Water First Nation Community Mourns After Fatal Stabbing

Hollow Water First Nation, Manitoba – September 4, 2025
The Hollow Water First Nation community has been left in shock and grief following the tragic death of Jenny Bushie, 37, who was fatally stabbed in a violent incident earlier this week.

Authorities responded late in the evening after receiving reports of multiple people injured in a series of stabbings. When officers and emergency crews arrived, they found several victims suffering from stab wounds. Despite the urgent efforts of paramedics, Jenny Bushie was pronounced dead at the scene.

Family members and community leaders described Bushie as a caring woman who was deeply connected to her family and community. Her sudden and violent death has sent waves of sorrow through the small Anishinaabe community, which is home to only a few hundred people.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that the suspect, Tyrone Simard, 26, was known to police and is believed to have targeted people he knew. Simard fled the community in a stolen vehicle but died shortly afterward in a collision with an RCMP officer’s car. The officer was critically injured but is expected to recover.

Community leaders, including Chief Larry Barker, urged residents to come together in support of one another during this difficult time.

“The families were very close to me, and my deepest condolences go out to them. I ask the community to pray and support one another,” Chief Barker said at a press conference.

The attack left seven others injured, some critically, with victims recovering in nearby hospitals. RCMP officers continue to secure the area, going door to door to ensure no additional victims were overlooked.

The tragedy has drawn comparisons to the 2022 James Smith Cree Nation mass stabbing in Saskatchewan, which left 11 people dead. Many across Canada are now calling for stronger resources and mental health supports in First Nations communities to help prevent such tragedies.

Bushie’s family has asked for privacy as they grieve, while the community has begun organizing vigils in her honor.

“Our sincere condolences to everyone within the community of Hollow Water First Nation and to all who have been affected by this senseless act of violence,” the RCMP said in a statement.