Fire destroys community arena in Berens River First Nation

Berens River First Nation in Manitoba is grieving the loss of the community's arena in a fire on Thursday.

Smoke was shown billowing out of the top of the structure in a video posted on social media by resident Joyce Semple. The community is about 275 kilometres north of Winnipeg.

Spotting the flames after dropping off her grandchildren at school, Semple felt helpless. 

"The only place I could think of to call was the Berens River Band Office," she said.

"I called the secretary, when she answered and I told her the arena is on fire, and we hung up."

WATCH | Berens River loses its arena to fire 

Berens River First Nation loses arena to fire

1 day ago

Duration 0:50

The arena in Berens River First Nation, roughly 275 kilometres north of Winnipeg, burned down on Thursday. It was a gathering place for the community, which says it will rebuild the structure.

Semple alerted the community on the Berens River Announcements Facebook page and people rushed to help.  

"The carpenter crew, the RCMP, and more people, they did all they could to try and save it," she said.

"Everyone who showed up tried, but it was too late."

Arenas in First Nations and rural communities are more than a place to skate. They provide a gathering space, hosting a variety of events as well as providing recreational opportunities.

The Berens River arena hosted a chess program for youth, and students from Berens River School would visit the arena on a regular basis. The sixth annual Gerald Semple hockey tournament was scheduled for March. 

"The community is sad, especially the children," said Semple.

Chief Hartley Everett said in a statement, "The arena may be gone, but the spirit of what it represented — the friendships, the dreams, and the memories — lives on in all of us."

"While this tragedy is painful, it is also a moment to remind ourselves of the incredible strength we hold as a community when we come together."

Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs acting chief Betsy Kennedy said in a statement, "Our thoughts are with Chief Hartley Everett, the Council, and all members of Berens River First Nation during this challenging time."

"Community spaces like this arena are so important to First Nations — places where events are hosted, traditions are celebrated, and youth find inspiration through sports and other activities."

Arissen Bouchie, 8, said, "We are really sad. We had good memories at the arena. We want a new arena so we could make more memories."