Doug Palson, the chief of Manitoba First Nations Police Service, died in a house fire early Wednesday morning.
He served as Dryden’s chief of police from 2015 until 2021, bringing with him 27 years of policing experience from Manitoba.
Portage La Prairie RCMP and fire services responded to the blaze at Palson’s residence.
RCMP said his remains were found inside the home once the flames were extinguished.
“Although the investigation is on-going, we believe that Chief Palson was the victim of this tragic incident,” the Manitoba First Nations Police Service said in a recent social media post.
The police service said they are working closely with the RCMP and the Office of the Fire Commissioner during this process.
They expressed their grief and loss, noting that Chief Palson was a passionate leader who loved the police service and its members.
Palson’s leadership was felt across the 10 First Nation communities served by the Manitoba First Nations Police Service.
Dryden mayor Jack Harrison says the city extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues during this extremely difficult time.