Police investigate early morning knife attack in Nunavik community

Nunavik police are investigating the link between a stabbing and an apparent suicide in the community of Kangiqsujuaq. (FILE PHOTO)

Police in Nunavik are investigating an apparent knife attack and a suicide death in the community of Kangiqsujuaq.

Kativik Regional Police Force members responded to a call about an injured person at about 8 a.m. April 19.

A young woman was brought to the local nursing station to be treated for a severe cut to her neck, the Kativik Regional Government said April 20, although her injury is not life-threatening.

During the same period, KRPF officers also responded to the sound of a gunshot coming from a home in this Hudson Strait community of about 700 people.

Once the home was secured, police officers discovered the body of a man, who is believed to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The KRG told Nunatsiaq News the two incidents appear to be related.

Residents of Kangiqsujuaq are mourning the death of the man, Pita Keatainaq, a local Canadian Ranger, first responder and well-known dog musher, who also served as the community’s fire chief for a time.

Nunavimmiut who are struggling with thoughts of suicide can contact their local CLSC health clinic at -9090 to speak to a health care professional.

Support is also available in both English and Inuktitut, 24 hours a day, by calling the Kamatsiaqtut help line at 1-800-265-3333.