MATAWA FIRST NATIONS MANAGEMENT RESPOND TO VERDICT OF INQUEST JURY IN THE INQUEST INTO THE DEATHS OF LUKE MOORE, LORRAINE SHAGANASH, LIZZIE SUTHERLAND, MARK FERRIS, AND DOUGLAS TAYLOR OF CONSTANCE LAKE FIRST NATION
MEDIA RELEASE
November 26, 2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MATAWA FIRST NATIONS MANAGEMENT RESPOND TO VERDICT OF INQUEST JURY IN THE INQUEST INTO THE DEATHS OF LUKE MOORE, LORRAINE SHAGANASH, LIZZIE SUTHERLAND, MARK FERRIS, AND DOUGLAS TAYLOR OF CONSTANCE LAKE FIRST NATION
THUNDER BAY, ON – Following the Office of the Coroner’s verdict of inquest jury released on November 19, 2025, Matawa First Nations Management (MFNM) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sharon L. Nate issued the following response:
“While we are not providing comment on the jury’s findings regarding the cause or means of death—MFNM, Matawa Technical Services, the Matawa Health Co-operative, Matawa Animal Wellness and the Four Rivers Environmental Services Group are working to review the verdict and remain committed to continuing supporting Constance Lake First Nation.
We acknowledge the long and difficult process for the families, friends, and community, and we honour their strength, resilience, and unwavering resolve. We also acknowledge the leadership of Dr. Michael B. Wilson, presiding officer and thank the jury for their insightful recommendations as broken down within themes and informed by leading guiding research and principles such as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and Joyce’s Principle.
We are happy that the recommendations include potentially meaningful improvements to the community and the situation. There are many areas where we are eager to work with other partners named in the verdict. The provincial and federal governments now need to act to support the costs of implementation including ensuring that First Nations are reimbursed costs for representation. Apprised by the lessons learned from this inquest, this tragedy should never happen again in the Matawa region or anywhere in Canada.”
Anyone requiring emotional support and assistance is encouraged to contact NAN Hope at 1-844-NAN-HOPE (626-4673).
— 30 —
For more information, please contact: Carol Audet, Communications Manager at 1-807-632-9663 or caudet@matawa.on.ca.