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NEW TOWN - The investigation continues into an incident on the Fort Berthold Reservation in which two people were killed and one injured in a shooting Friday, Sept. 25, according to the Three Affiliated Tribes Law Enforcement Services.
The FBI, the primary investigative agency for the incident, released a statement Monday, Sept. 28, through its Minneapolis office, saying the FBI responded to and is investigating a double homicide that occurred last Friday night on the Fort Berthold Reservation in the vicinity of New Town. Two people were killed and one additional victim was wounded. The investigation is being conducted in partnershp with TAT Law Enforcement and BIA-OJS (Bureau of Indian Affairs-Office of Justice Services). In addition to tribal jurisdiction, the investigation involves federal jurisdiction under the Major Crimes Act. This is an active investigation and by policy, there is no further information available for release at this time, according to the FBI.
TAT Law Enforcement Services said in its earlier release that four suspects were identified and apprehended with the assistance of the tribal agency’s local and area law enforcement partners.
Mark Fox, chairman of the MHA Nation, issued a statement Saturday, Sept. 26, saying, “The MHA Nation is facing a deeply difficult and heart-breaking time following a shooting incident that occurred last night.
“This tragic event has brought a terrible sense of loss to our community, and my heart remains with all who have been affected.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all responding law enforcement partners from our local state, tribal and federal agencies for their immediate assistance and highly trained response to the incident. We are equally grateful to our first responders and all others who worked tirelessly during this situation.
“Public safety remains our highest priority. Law enforcement will continue to take the necessary steps to protect our residents and preserve the safety and security of our community,” Fox said.
Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College in New Town and New Town Public Schools called off classes Monday due to the recent incident. Counseling is being offered to students and their families. Effective Tuesday, Sept. 30, New Town Public Schools implemented additional safety protocols to help ensure a safe environment for all students and staff, according to its Facebook page.