Chief Doug Palson

January 8, 2025

Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council Police Commission Media Release

With a heavy heart, the Manitoba First Nation Police Service shares the sudden and tragic news of a house fire that occurred earlier this morning at the residence of our Chief Doug Palson.


Portage la Prairie RCMP and Fire quickly responded to the scene, and once the fire was extinguished, investigators discovered human remains in the home.


Although the investigation is on-going, we believe that Chief Palson was the victim of this tragic incident. Manitoba First Nation Police Service is working closely alongside the Manitoba RCMP, and the Office of the Fire Commissioner during this process.


Our thoughts and prayers are with Chief Palson’s family as they deal with this tragedy. We are also sharing in the grief and loss which is being felt by the members of the Manitoba First Nations Police Service. We are all connected as a united police family at this time. Chief Palson was a passionate leader who loved our police service and its members who serve our 10 First Nation communities with pride and respect.


On behalf of the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council Police Commission, I would like to express our heartfelt sadness for the loss of Chief Palson to his family, friends, and colleagues. The days ahead will be challenging, but we will come together to support each other.


Sherri Thomas
Chair – Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council Police Commission

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