Police have urged individuals to steer clear of the Ginoogaming First Nation area and advised residents to stay indoors as they hunt for two armed and dangerous suspects on the loose. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and Anishinabek Police Service (APS) are actively responding to the situation, as stated in an OPP press release issued around 6 a.m. ET on Wednesday.
The suspects are both described as Black males, with one being taller than the other. The taller suspect is wearing an all-grey jogging suit with braided hair, while the shorter one is clad in black pants and black shoes. Residents of Ginoogaming have been instructed to take shelter inside a secure building, lock all doors and windows, and draw the curtains for safety.
Members of the public are urged to immediately call 911 if they spot the suspects and are cautioned against approaching them. Bill Dickson, the media relations coordinator for the OPP, confirmed that a significant number of officers from both the OPP and APS are actively scouring the area for the suspects, emphasizing the importance of continued sheltering.
The search operation was initiated following reports of gunshots in the vicinity around 2 a.m. on Wednesday. Dickson highlighted the deployment of multiple resources by the OPP, including frontline officers, the Emergency Response Team, the Tactics and Rescue Unit, and the aviation unit, in their efforts to locate the individuals and restore safety to the community.
Matthew Donovan, the Greenstone deputy mayor and Nakina Ward councillor, acknowledged the high level of concern among residents and expressed gratitude for their cooperation during this challenging time. He emphasized the unfamiliarity of such situations in the Greenstone area and underscored the importance of following directives from law enforcement agencies and staying informed through social media channels.
In response to the ongoing situation, the Municipality of Greenstone has temporarily closed certain services, including the Friends of the North Daycare, Seniors Centre, and Municipal Ward Office in Longlac. Additionally, all public and Catholic elementary schools in Longlac and Long Lake #58 First Nation have been shut down, with exceptions made for some educational institutions.
As the search continues, Ginoogaming First Nation, located approximately 300 km northeast of Thunder Bay, remains at the center of the operation. Residents are urged to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 with any relevant information about the suspects.