SIX NATIONS — Expressions of sympathy and concern went out across the community to Six Nations Elected Chief Mark Hill, after being rescued from his home while it was on fire last week.
Six Nations of the Grand River Elected Council and the Emergency Control Group both issued statements of support for Chief Hill following the announcement that officials are now investigating the fire as a possible arson.
“Although the loss he has suffered is tremendous, we remain thankful that he was not physically harmed,” said the council.
“We are sending our strength and prayers to Elected Chief Mark Hill following Tuesday’s devastating event,” said the council. “We hope he takes the time he needs and we will support him to do so.”
At Tuesday’s General Council meeting Councillor Nathan Wright stated Chief Hill would be away from regular duties on respite until September 8.
“We are sending our prayers and good medicines to Elected Chief Hill and his family following last week’s terrible news,” says the Six Nations Emergency Control Group in a statement. “Chief Hill has played an incredible leadership role within the ECG and we wish him and his family healing and good health. We look forward to his return as we try our best to continue to navigate through these uncertain times in his strongly-felt absence.”
The Emergency Control Group was initiated in March to help guide the community through the global COVID-19 pandemic. Elected Chief Hill is the group’s representative from Elected Council.
The ECG also thanked the Six Nations Fire and Emergency Services, Six Nations Paramedics and the Six Nations Police Services members who responded to the Elected Chief’s home on Sixth Line.
After consultation with the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office, Six Nations Police confirmed Wednesday the fire at the Chief’s home is an active arson investigation.
On Tuesday August 18, 2020 at 8:23 AM, Six Nations Police and Six Nations Fire and Emergency Services responders arrived to battle the blast at Chief Hill’s home on Sixth Line.
Police said as first responders arrived the home was completely engulfed in flames. A passerby suspected Chief Hill was still inside the home. Police say that person managed to get Chief Hill out to safety.
Initially when they arrived Six Nations Police received word that another family member may still be inside the residence. A secondary search of the residence was initiated; police were updated that the other person was accounted for at a different location.
The home suffered major fire and smoke damage. Anybody with any information on the August 18th fire is encouraged to contact Six Nations Police at 519-445-2811 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).