Wildfires Destroy Collins First Nation as 889 Active Fires Spread Across Canada
Updated
Updated · CNN International · Jul 18
Wildfires Destroy Collins First Nation as 889 Active Fires Spread Across Canada
3 articles · Updated · CNN International · Jul 18
Summary
More than 30 homes and nearly all key buildings in Collins First Nation were destroyed after a July 13 wildfire forced residents to flee by small boats across Collins Lake.
Officials said the fire started unusually close to the remote Ontario community, leaving little time to respond after residents had earlier been told there was no immediate danger.
Only 25 of roughly 60 members were in Collins when the fire hit, a factor residents and Indigenous leaders said likely prevented deaths during the chaotic evacuation.
Anishinabek Nation leaders said they are covering evacuees' hotel, meal and supply costs in Thunder Bay because government support has yet to arrive, citing jurisdictional gaps tied to Collins' status.
The destruction has intensified scrutiny of Ontario's wildfire readiness as 163 active fires burned in the province and smoke triggered air-quality warnings as far away as Toronto.
Canada spends millions on fire prevention. Why was an entire Indigenous community left to burn?
As megafires become the new normal, can traditional Indigenous knowledge offer the best defense?
A First Nation was denied aid and incinerated. What bureaucratic loophole allowed this to happen?
Namaygoosisagagun First Nation Destroyed: The July 2026 Wildfire, Systemic Failures, and the Call for Indigenous-Led Solutions
Overview
On July 13, 2026, the Namaygoosisagagun (Collins) First Nation community was rapidly engulfed by a catastrophic event, resulting in widespread destruction. Over 30 homes and all essential infrastructure were lost, wiping out the physical foundations of the community and leaving residents without homes or vital services. Due to its remote, road-inaccessible location, conventional emergency responses were extremely difficult. Despite these challenges, residents quickly organized their own evacuation by boat, demonstrating resilience in the face of disaster. This tragedy highlights the severe impact of wildfires on remote Indigenous communities and the urgent need for better emergency support.