The chief of Mosquito First Nation has issued a statement thanking everyone who called to offer their prayers, condolences and assistance following the death of a toddler mauled in a dog attack on the reserve.
The toddler, named Flora Francis, was not yet two years old when she died Aug 21, after wandering into a yard on Mosquito reserve where two dogs attacked and killed her. She died soon after in hospital.
"It's tragic that it happened," said Chief Noel Stone. Stone told the News-Optimist the victim was buried Tuesday.
Stone called Mosquito First Nation a "close-knit community and it's tragic the events that happened." He adds the reaction was still one of shock. Mosquito First Nation has between 450 and 500 residents on reserve, as well as a total of 1,300 band members
Not only was the family of the toddler grieving, the chief said, but so was the dog owner, who destroyed the dogs after the tragedy.
Stone said the dog owners felt badly about the whole incident.
"It just goes to show that even a family pet can turn," said Stone.
"Things like that happen."
In speaking to the News-Optimist Thursday, Stone expressed his thanks to everyone who offered their assistance, including the RCMP, the funeral homes and others.
"We got a lot of calls from Saskatchewan, from Canada and the United States with respect to prayers and condolences," said Stone.
He also thanked Victim Services for their help in grief counselling, and "they are still helping out," he said.
Stone also thanked the media for "giving us time to grieve."
