WINNIPEG –
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has honoured first responders for their actions following a fiery bus crash on the Trans-Canada Highway last year that killed 17 people.
Kinew has awarded the Order of the Buffalo Hunt to 134 responders, including paramedics, police, firefighters and dispatchers, who helped after the crash near the town of Carberry.
Kinew told dozens of responders assembled at the legislature that he felt he was in a room full of heroes.
The bus was carrying seniors to a casino when it crossed into the path of a semi-trailer.
Kinew said the responders’ actions represented the best of Manitoba, and he promised mental health supports for everyone affected.
Yves Guillas, chief of the volunteer fire department in Neepawa, says the crash was a mass casualty event unlike anything he’d ever seen, but everyone worked together.
The Order of The Buffalo Hunt recognizes individuals and groups who demonstrate outstanding skills in the areas of leadership, service and community commitment.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 28, 2024.