Four individuals from St. Theresa Point First Nation lost their lives following a float plane accident approximately 40 kilometers south of the northeastern Manitoba community on Saturday evening, as confirmed by authorities. Responding to the incident at Makepeace Lake, where the crash occurred around 6:45 p.m., were police, military search-and-rescue teams, and a chartered helicopter, according to a statement from Manitoba RCMP released on Sunday.
The tragic event resulted in the deaths of four passengers, identified as a 49-year-old man, two 50-year-old women, and a 53-year-old man, all hailing from St. Theresa Point First Nation and en route to Makepeace Lake. Although the intended landing was on the water, the float plane ended up crashing on land just north of the lake, police reported.
The pilot, a 20-year-old male, sustained severe but non-life-threatening injuries, according to the RCMP. The search-and-rescue crew administered medical aid to the pilot, with officials remaining at the crash site overnight. CBC News verified that the float plane was affiliated with Alair air taxi service originating from St. Theresa Point First Nation, yet a company representative declined to provide further details.
Sgt. Paul Manaigre, spokesperson for Manitoba RCMP, disclosed that the identities of the deceased individuals had been conveyed to St. Theresa Point’s chief and council. Chief Raymond Flett expressed the community’s profound shock at losing four members, two couples with young children, who were embarking on a weekend trip to their customary hunting grounds when the tragedy unfolded.
In a statement shared on Facebook on Sunday, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and Grand Chief Kyra Wilson extended their deepest sympathies to the St. Theresa Point community, emphasizing solidarity during this trying time. The community eagerly awaits updates from the ongoing investigations led by the RCMP and federal transportation safety authorities.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families, friends, and community members as they navigate this challenging period,” Manaigre remarked, noting the importance of prompt information dissemination regarding the incident. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has confirmed its involvement in scrutinizing the crash, involving a de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver float plane, while police continue their investigative efforts, as per the RCMP announcement.
