A fatal shooting during a student event has claimed the life of a local athlete and forced the closure of the Lambton College campus.
A 20-year-old Sarnia man has been identified as the victim in a fatal shooting during a student event at Lambton College early Friday morning, an incident that has shut down the campus and triggered an active homicide investigation.
According to Sarnia Police Service, officers responded to reports of gunfire just before 1 a.m. on April 10 at the Lions Den Pub and Grill, an on-campus bar, during a Student Administrative Council event.
Police have identified the victim as Dane Nisbet, 20, of Sarnia. He was transported to hospital where he was pronounced dead. Two other young adults were also shot and are being treated for injuries described as non-life-threatening. Investigators have not said whether the victims knew each other or had any connection to those responsible.
Dane Nisbet was an active player in the local hockey system, most recently skating with the North Middlesex Stars in the Provincial Junior Hockey League. He had also played with several well-known local programs, including the Sarnia Legionnaires, Lambton Jr. Sting U18 teams, and the Mooretown Flags.
The initial police response involved all available patrol units, followed by the deployment of the Emergency Response Team and K9 units after a firearm was confirmed. Officers searched for suspects, additional victims, and any weapons, while investigators began interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence.
Forensic investigators remain on scene processing evidence, and police continue to appeal for information from the public. As of Friday, no arrests have been made and a weapon has not been recovered.
Police have stated there is no information indicating the incident targeted Lambton College or the broader crowd attending the event, and no evidence suggesting any political motive. The case is being treated as an ongoing homicide investigation.
In a statement, Lambton College confirmed the shooting occurred during a sanctioned student event and called the death a “profound tragedy.” The college has closed its Sarnia campus for the day, cancelling all classes and services, and asked the public to avoid the area. Counselling and wellness supports are being provided to students and staff.
Police are asking anyone with information or video footage to contact investigators.