Woman killed at Enoch Cree Nation Indian Relay event Friday night

A woman was killed Friday evening when a horse competing in an Indian Relay event left the track and struck her at Enoch Rodeo Grounds. The incident occurred during an Indian Relay event at Enoch Park Race Track.

The woman was standing in the media area when the horse made contact with her. Emergency medical services pronounced her dead at the scene. The victim's identity has not been released.

Occupational Health and Safety is conducting an investigation with RCMP support. Cpl. Mathew Howell, RCMP media relations officer, provided the account to Postmedia.

Enoch Cree Nation released a statement Saturday: "Chief and council extend our most sincere condolences to the family. Our community is grieving, and we are holding them in our thoughts and prayers. The nation is working with the appropriate authorities as they conduct their investigation, and we will support that process fully. Out of respect, we will not be speculating on the circumstances."

Indian Relay is a high-speed race where athletes switch horses at full speed while galloping around a track after each lap, typically without a saddle. The event is rooted in traditional bison hunting and warrior training.