The RCMP have confirmed reports of a bear mace incident at the Tony Cote Summer Games in La Ronge.
Several social media accounts posted about the incident Wednesday evening.
In a media release sent to MBC News on Thursday morning, the RCMP says they received reports about the incident around 6:00 pm.
Mounties say their investigation determined a male youth deployed the bear mace targeting another youth.
RCMP say as a result, several people were affected with one individual treated in hospital.
The teenage male who allegedly sprayed the bear mace was arrested and RCMP say charges are expected in the coming days.
“It’s very unfortunate that one individual chose to disrupt an event that so many have travelled to La Ronge to enjoy. Investigators have determined this was a targeted, isolated incident involving individuals unconnected to the event,” said S/Sgt. Derek Eberle from the La Ronge RCMP in the release sent to MBC News. “We continue to work with organizers to ensure the event is safe for all attendees.”
In the meantime, social media reports said that athletes from Big River First Nation withdrew from the games citing safety concerns following the bear spray incident.
MBC News has reached out to chief and council from the First Nation, but has not yet heard back.