Memorial caravan honors Chiefstick on anniversary of fatal shooting

Exactly one year after Stonechild Chiefstick, of the Chippewa Cree tribe of Montana, was shot and killed by Poulsbo Police during a crowded July 3 firework display in downtown Poulsbo, a memorial caravan was held in Chiefstick’s honor.

Since the shooting, tribal and community members have been vocal in their criticism of the Poulsbo Police Department, in particular, officer Craig Keller, the one who fired the fatal shots at Chiefstick. Since the shooting, many commenters during public comment periods at Poulsbo City Council meetings have used their time to call for the resignation of Keller.

Keller remains on administrative leave, following a short return to work, after Kitsap County Prosecuting Attorney Chad Enright determined that no criminal charges would be leveled against Keller for his actions last year. Keller’s conduct remains under internal review by the Poulsbo Police Department — in order to decide if Keller will remain employed by the department — with a final determination expected later this summer.

A crowd of protesters gathered in downtown Poulsbo, many carrying signs decrying police shootings, in particular, the July 3, 2019, death of Stonechild Chiefstick. Photo Courtesy Suquamish Tribe

A crowd of protesters gathered in downtown Poulsbo, many carrying signs decrying police shootings, in particular, the July 3, 2019, death of Stonechild Chiefstick. Photo Courtesy Suquamish Tribe