PRINCE RUPERT — The Gitxaala Nation has formally intensified its demand for a criminal investigation following a disturbing incident at the Prince Rupert Safeway on March 3, 2026. By March 7, the Nation’s leadership confirmed they have engaged a legal team to support the impacted family and are prepared to pursue all avenues of accountability.
Allegations of Racial Profiling
The incident, which occurred earlier this month, allegedly involved the racial profiling of a Gitxaala community member by store staff. Brenna Innes, Deputy Chief of the Gitxaala Nation, stated that multiple witnesses have come forward with video evidence and written statements that corroborate the family’s account of the event.
“Our community members deserve to shop in their own town without being subjected to harassment or profiling based on the color of their skin,” said Deputy Chief Innes. “The silence from the parent company is deafening”.
Status of the Investigation
As of March 8, 2026, the Prince Rupert RCMP has confirmed that a formal investigation is underway. Police are meticulously reviewing witness statements and available CCTV footage from the 3rd Avenue West location.
Once the investigation is complete, the findings will be forwarded to the BC Prosecution Service to determine if criminal charges—such as assault or public incitement of hatred—are warranted.
Corporate Silence and Community Response
Despite the high-profile nature of the allegations, the Gitxaala Nation reports that no apology or formal communication has been received from Sobeys Inc., Safeway’s parent company, as of Sunday morning.
The lack of corporate response has sparked a wider conversation in the Skeena region regarding the treatment of Indigenous shoppers in major retail chains. Local advocacy groups have signaled potential peaceful demonstrations at the site if a formal acknowledgment of the incident is not forthcoming.
Timeline: Safeway Incident Investigation (2026)
| Date | Event | Status |
| March 3 | Incident occurs at Prince Rupert Safeway | Active |
| March 7 | Gitxaala Nation engages legal team | Confirmed |
| March 8 | Deadline for corporate apology (Unmet) | Pending |
| March 8 | RCMP investigation in progress | Underway |
If you witnessed the incident at Safeway on March 3, or have video footage to share, please contact the Gitxaala Nation administration or the Prince Rupert RCMP at 250-624-2136.
