RCMP have confirmed that a five-year-old boy on the Samson Cree Nation died from a gunshot wound to his head.
The little boy has been identified by police as Ethan Yellowbird. He is the grandson of the Samson Cree Nation Chief Marvin Yellowbird.
The cousin of the victim, country music singer Shane Yellowbird issued a statement Tuesday thanking the public for their support.
"I'm saddened and shocked by the tragic loss of my little cousin. Thank you for all your messages of support and sympathy. We all need to continue to work for peace in our communities."
Police believe the shots were fired from outside the residence around 3 a.m. Sunday. The five-year-old boy was asleep in his bed at the time.
"I was sad, it brought tears to my eyes. Why a baby? He did nothing, he didn't deserve this," said resident Peggy Johnson.
An adult female in the residence sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the shooting, and was taken to hospital.
Police will only say they are searching for evidence a day after the shooting.
And while this community grieves, first nation leaders are reaffirming change can be made.
"There is much more that we have to do…we have to demonstrate the leadership and show the courage that's needed to say no more," said National Chief Shawn Atleo.
Investigators say they have not ruled out possible gang activity.
Police revealed a separate house was shot at less than two hours before the little boy was killed. Officers are still looking into whether the two incidents are linked.
Three years ago, little Asia Saddleback was shot in a drive-by in the same community. She survived, but a bullet is still lodged near her spine.
RCMP say there are six loosely-organized gangs organized in the Hobbema area.
The RCMP is asking for the public's assistance in this investigation. If anyone has any information in relation to this incident, they are encouraged to call the local RCMP detachment at 780-585-4600 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
With files from Serena Mah
