Man who killed sister, injured 7 in Manitoba mass stabbing was out on bail

Man Out on Bail Charged with Killing Sister in Manitoba Stabbing Incident

A man who police say killed his sister and attacked several others with a knife on Hollow Water First Nation in Manitoba was out on bail at the time of the incident.

Court records reveal that Tyrone Simard, 26, was charged with assault with a weapon and mischief for alleged offences that occurred on June 8. Additionally, he faced charges of sexual assault, sexual interference, and invitation to sexual touching from incidents in 2017.

Despite the charges against him, a Winnipeg court granted his release on June 12 with various conditions, including a curfew, a prohibition on using drugs or alcohol, and a ban on possessing weapons. He was also ordered not to contact four individuals.

When asked if he understood the conditions, Simard responded affirmatively to the court.

Tragic Events Unfold

On the day of the incident, Simard allegedly stabbed eight people on the First Nation, resulting in the death of his 18-year-old sister and leaving the other victims hospitalized. Following the attack, Simard fled in a stolen vehicle and later died in a highway crash involving an RCMP cruiser. The officer in the cruiser, who was en route to the scene of the attack, sustained injuries but is expected to recover.

The community of Hollow Water has received an outpouring of condolences and support from various sources, including the James Smith Cree Nation in Saskatchewan, which experienced a mass stabbing three years prior. The tragic event claimed the lives of eleven individuals and left seventeen others injured.

In a statement posted on social media, the James Smith First Nation expressed solidarity with Hollow Water, offering strength and compassion during this difficult time.

Calls for Action and Unity

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew visited Hollow Water on Thursday evening, demonstrating support for the grieving community. The Anishinaabe community, home to approximately 1,000 residents, is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg.

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak also extended prayers and condolences to the affected individuals and families. She emphasized the need for immediate action to ensure the safety and security of First Nations citizens, advocating for community-based approaches that address the unique needs of Indigenous communities.