The Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service, in conjunction with the Saskatchewan RCMP and in collaboration with the families of the deceased victims, are releasing the names of the people who died as a result of the September 4, 2022, stabbings on James Smith Cree Nation and in Weldon, Saskatchewan. We will not be identifying or confirming any relationships of the individuals identified.
Our hearts continue to go out to all the families and loved ones impacted by this immense tragedy.
Victims Services continues to work closely with Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes and communicate with the families of the deceased and injured victims. We respectfully ask news agencies/reporters for privacy for those grieving the loss of their loved ones and the injured victims.
With this in mind and to assist with your ongoing reporting, several families of the deceased have provided photographs of their loved ones which they have graciously permitted us to share with news partners. They are the highest quality photographs available.
The deceased victims are identified as:
23-year-old Thomas Burns of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
46-year-old Carol Burns of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
28-year-old Gregory Burns of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
61-year-old Lydia Gloria Burns of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
48-year-old Bonnie Burns of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
66-year-old Earl Burns of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
49-year-old Lana Head of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
54-year-old Christian Head of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
49-year-old Robert Sanderson of James Smith Cree Nation, Saskatchewan
78-year-old Wesley Petterson of Weldon, Saskatchewan
The identities of injured persons will not be released. We can confirm one young teen was injured and the remaining injured are all adults. We will not be confirming other specific ages. Injured victims encompass both males and females.
