RCMP investigators are appealing to the public for information on a white side-by-side vehicle with a black roof linked to a fatal shooting and multiple injuries on Big Island Lake Cree Nation on December 30, 2025.
Details of the Shootings
Multiple reports of gunshots emerged around 5:10 a.m. CST on the First Nation, located approximately 320 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon. Officers from the Pierceland detachment arrived to find an injured youth at one home. Shortly after, they located a second injured youth nearby. Both sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and received hospital treatment.
Investigators determined the two youths were together when suspects in the side-by-side opened fire. Around 6 a.m., another shooting report led officers to a 31-year-old man suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts by police and EMS, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Neil Wahpistikwan has been identified by family members as the victim.
At the same time, officers discovered a fourth victim—an adult man—receiving EMS care at a nearby home. He had been with Wahpistikwan during the attack and was hospitalized.
Vehicle Surveillance and Public Appeal
Surveillance footage captured the side-by-side involved in the incidents. Authorities have released video images of the vehicle and urge anyone with details about it or its occupants on the morning of December 30 to come forward.
“People have information about this side-by-side, who was driving it and who was riding in it. They need to talk to police,” stated Insp. Ashley St. Germaine, senior investigative officer with the RCMP’s homicide unit. “I know some people are nervous about speaking to police. I urge you to sit down with our investigators and talk about it. They will listen to you.”
The shootings prompted a dangerous persons alert at 8:23 a.m., which authorities lifted before 5 p.m. that day. Investigators have revisited the community several times in the past six weeks, with an increased police presence ongoing.
Individuals with information should contact police at 310-RCMP or submit an anonymous tip via Crime Stoppers.
