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First responder speaks about Northern Saskatchewan death

Jul 14, 2011 | 12:08 PM

A small Northern Saskatchewan community is in shock – residents of Hall Lake are asking questions about a tragic accident that happened Wednesday morning.

The 12-year-old boy, Ivan Ross, was shot and killed. Community members say the boy was out in the bush hunting – another boy he was with allegedly pulled the trigger.

RCMP have confirmed there were three boys in the bush behind a home, including the victim, all ranging in age from 12 to 15.

The have charged a 14-year-old boy, his name is being withheld by RCMP because is under the age of 18, with careless use of a firearm. He was in La Ronge Provincial Court this morning and was released.

Both boys are members of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band.

Caroline Ross was the first responder on the scene. The 12-year-old boy was found in the community but Ross said that’s not where the shooting happened.

“He was carried there from wherever the accident happened, he was shot further down,” she said.

Ross said the boy had a gunshot wound to the back of his head. He was barely breathing when she arrived and died a short time later. One other boy was sitting nearby.

“He looked like he was in shock to me. He sat there crying and calling for that dead man to wake up,” said Ross.

RCMP said an autopsy has been ordered for Friday in Prince Albert. La Ronge RCMP are still investigating.

Members of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band's Family Crisis Unit are in Hall Lake helping the family.

nmaxwell@panow.com