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Premier offers condolences to ‘multiple victims’ of Faro shooting

Premier Sandy Silver said critical supports are being provided to residents of Faro and emergency responders.
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Premier Sandy Silver said critical supports are being provided to residents of Faro and emergency responders.

“This is truly a tragic situation,” he said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims. We stand with the people of Faro during this extremely difficult time.”

Multiple injuries have been reported in Faro after a shooting around 1 p.m. on Oct. 26.

He noted Family and Children’s Services is working with the Department of Education to provide crisis response to the school community while Victim Services and the Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services are providing counselling and “immediate assistance” in the community.

“We have been in contact with the Town of Faro to offer any support that is needed,” he said.

“We thank all first responders and the RCMP for their rapid response and encourage patience as the RCMP continue to investigate the situation.”

Both Faber and incoming mayor Jack Bowers confirmed with the News there were multiple injuries, but would not confirm how many people had been injured since the matter is with RCMP.

“It’s a very sad day in the community,” said outgoing mayor Leonard Faber in a phone interview.

Faber said shortly after 1 p.m., a call from the town’s nursing station stated the town should be on alert.

An RCMP press release issued just before 3:30 p.m. explained that reports of shots fired were received that afternoon.

A possible suspect has been identified and apprehended.

“The threat has ended,” RCMP say.

Faro residents have been advised to avoid Harper Street, Yates Street, Tintina Subdivision, and anywhere police are working.

Faro was sent into lockdown around 2 p.m. on Oct. 26 when police posted about an “emergency situation” on Twitter and Facebook. All residents were told to shelter in place. A Facebook post from the town of Faro announced that an active shooter was in the community.

“PLEASE stay home and lock your doors until further notice,” the post said.

About 30 minutes later, the order was rescinded.

Bowers said the small, close-knit community is in a state of shock, with many asking the same questions about exactly how it all happened.

“We’re heartbroken,” he said.

Tonight’s town council meeting, which would have seen Bowers take on the position of mayor from Faber, has been postponed until next week.

The two municipal leaders asked that Yukoners keep the community and those impacted in their thoughts.

Correction: An earlier version of this story described the shooting as occurring around 12:30 p.m. RCMP clarified on Oct. 27 that it was actually around 1 p.m. The time was inaccurately reported to media due to a technical error.

Contact Stephanie Waddell at stephanie.waddell@yukon-news.com