A weekend shooting outside a Fort Smith bar has resulted in serious charges against two Alberta men, with authorities revealing new details about how a street fight spiralled into violence that shook the northern community.
Early Saturday morning, just after 2 a.m., gunfire erupted outside Dirty O'Fergie's bar on McDougal Road in Fort Smith, N.W.T. The incident left three people injured and forced the entire community into a 13-hour shelter-in-place order, cancelling events and leaving residents anxious as RCMP hunted for those responsible.
On Monday, Fort Smith RCMP announced charges against Sheldon Tan, 22, of Calgary, who faces three counts of aggravated assault, along with assault with a weapon and discharging a firearm with intent to cause harm. A second Alberta man was also charged with assault with a weapon and weapon possession in connection with the altercation.
The Escalation
Police investigations revealed the shooting did not occur in a vacuum. According to RCMP, the violence erupted following a clash where bear spray was deployed outside the bar. That initial confrontation—involving the second accused—appears to have been the spark that led to the gunfire moments later.
"All three injured individuals required treatment outside the territory," RCMP said in a statement. As of Monday, all victims were reported to be in stable condition with expectations for recovery, though police noted one person has sustained "life-altering injuries."
Both accused have made court appearances and remain in custody pending further proceedings.
Community on Edge
The timing of the incident proved particularly disruptive—the shooting occurred during the annual Fireweed Festival weekend, forcing organizers to pause celebrations as the lockdown took hold. Once RCMP lifted the shelter-in-place order, the festival resumed, allowing the community to reclaim the weekend.
Fort Smith Mayor Dana Fergusson praised residents for how they responded in the aftermath, noting that once safety was restored, community members came together to support one another and enjoy the festival.
"The police had asked anyone who had been present during the altercation to speak to a detective or investigator," Fergusson said, emphasizing the importance of gathering evidence to ensure a thorough investigation.
Police Seek Witnesses
RCMP continue investigating the circumstances leading up to the shooting and are actively seeking information from anyone present at the scene. Witnesses with photos, video, or other evidence are encouraged to contact the Fort Smith RCMP detachment before 9 p.m. Monday or provide tips to investigators.
A third individual was arrested during the investigation but has since been released without charge.
This article is based on reporting from CBC Calgary. For more information on this developing story, visit CBC News.