Toxic Drug Deaths Surge in Whitehorse as Cocaine, Fentanyl Claim Lives
🏙 Yukon Daily Briefing
Thursday, October 22, 2026
Every Yukon story. Every morning.
📌 Today's Top Stories
Coroner Reports Surge in Toxic Drug Deaths in Whitehorse
Yukon's chief coroner, Heather Jones, reported a surge of toxic substance deaths in Whitehorse since early July, with at least seven of the eight confirmed deaths involving Indigenous people and two more suspected cases under review. Preliminary findings show cocaine was present in all eight confirmed deaths and fluorofentanyl in five, after no confirmed toxic substance deaths were recorded between October 2025 and July. Jones called the concentration of deaths in a short period alarming and pointed to the dangers of the unregulated drug supply.
Source: APTN News Read →
Premier Dixon Offers Condolences After CFB Wainwright Fire
Premier Currie Dixon expressed condolences to the families, military members and community affected by a fire at CFB Wainwright in Alberta, which killed four active service members and seriously injured dozens more. He said the Yukon has not been asked for assistance but has extended an open offer to the governments of Alberta and Canada, and he ordered territorial flags lowered to half-mast. Dixon also noted the longstanding link between Yukoners and Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, many of whom have served or are serving with the regiment.
Source: Government of Yukon Read →
Yukon's Borrowing Limit Raised From $1.2B to $3B
The Government of Canada has raised Yukon's borrowing limit from $1.2 billion to $3 billion, giving the territory more flexibility to fund critical energy and health care infrastructure. The government stressed that the increase is a maximum borrowing authority, not a commitment to borrow or spend more, and that future decisions will weigh affordability and fiscal sustainability. Premier and Finance Minister Currie Dixon said the change does not alter the territory's challenging fiscal reality, and a new debt management policy will guide future borrowing.
Source: Government of Yukon Read →
📚 Full Index by Topic
Territorial Government & Politics
Yukon appeal court denies pause on privacy watchdog subpoenas
The Yukon Court of Appeal dismissed the territorial government's request to pause privacy commissioner subpoenas to five Justice Department employees during its appeal. The ruling allows the investigation into a denied access-to-information request for Whitehorse Correctional Centre video to proceed.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon News →
Municipal Government
Whitehorse Council Endorses Plan to Reduce Homelessness by 50 Percent
Whitehorse City Council endorsed A Place to Be, a 2025–2030 framework developed by the Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition that aims to reduce homelessness in the territory by 50 percent. The city will participate in an intergovernmental advisory group established under the plan.
2026-10-22 ·
City of Whitehorse Press Releases →
Whitehorse staff tables draft downtown trail plan
Whitehorse administration tabled a draft downtown trail plan proposing new trail routes and two potential pedestrian bridges across the Yukon River. Costs for the bridges could reach tens of millions of dollars, and the plan will guide future trail maintenance priorities.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon News →
First Nations & Reconciliation
Yukon, Canada Seek Dismissal of $150M Na-Cho Nyäk Dun Lawsuit
The Yukon and federal governments are seeking dismissal of a $150-million lawsuit filed by the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun. The suit alleges negligence over the June 2024 Eagle mine heap-leach failure and violations of treaty rights.
2026-10-21 ·
APTN News →
Yukon University and Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in Sign Education Co-Governance Agreement
Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in and Yukon University signed a Memorandum of Agreement at the Dawson City campus to implement Section 17.7 of the Self Government Agreement. The framework sets shared decision-making on post-secondary education in Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in Traditional Territory.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Dawna Hope Appointed Research Chair in Indigenous Water Governance
Yukon University's School of Indigenous Governance has appointed Dawna Hope as Research Chair in Indigenous Water Governance, funded by a five-year commitment from The Gordon Foundation. She will work on implementing Chapter 14 of the Yukon First Nations Final Agreements.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Alexia McKinnon Named Yukon University Vice-President, Reconciliation
Yukon University has welcomed Alexia McKinnon, a Champagne and Aishihik First Nations citizen, as Vice-President, Reconciliation. She previously held Indigenous leadership roles at Canadian institutions across academia, arts, energy and philanthropy.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Health & Wellness
$8.24M Investment Aims to Integrate Youth Mental Health Services
BYTE–Empowering Youth and the Territorial Youth Collective received $6.64 million from Health Canada, and Yukon University received $1.6 million from CIHR, for an integrated youth services hub. The initiative aims to improve youth access to mental health and substance use supports.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
YSPOR Receives $2.68M Extension to March 2028
The Yukon Strategy for Patient Oriented Research has received $2.68 million in extension funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. The funding allows YSPOR, based at Yukon University, to operate until March 31, 2028.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Yukon Partners With Wounded Warriors Canada for Responder Support
The Government of Yukon has partnered with Wounded Warriors Canada to expand mental health counselling and resilience training for emergency responders and their families. Eligible staff include Emergency Measures Organization, Wildland Fire Management and EMS personnel.
2026-10-20 ·
Government of Yukon →
Public Safety & Justice
Whitehorse firefighters save tabby cat trapped in tree for a day
Whitehorse Fire Department firefighters rescued a tabby cat that had been stuck in a tree for about a day. The cat was returned safely to its owner on October 21 after a rescue of under 30 minutes.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon News →
Environment & Wildlife
City Reminds Residents to Report Illegal Dumping
The City of Whitehorse reminds residents that illegal dumping is prohibited and can be reported online or to Bylaw Services at 867-667-2111. Dumping outside city limits can be reported to the TIPP line at 1-800-661-0525.
2026-10-20 ·
City of Whitehorse PSAs →
Business & Economy
Minister Warns 53% Electricity Rate Hike Without Federal Investment
Yukon's energy minister told a House of Commons committee that families could face a further 53 per cent electricity rate increase without federal investment. Yukon families already face rate increases totalling 34 per cent between 2025 and 2027.
2026-10-20 ·
Yukon News →
Eagle Gold Mine Sale Agreed to Boroo for $140 Million
The court-appointed receiver for Victoria Gold Corp. has agreed to sell the Eagle Gold Mine to Boroo for $140 million, payable in milestone installments. The sale is subject to court approval, and the Yukon government would be repaid first if milestones are met.
2026-10-22 ·
Government of Yukon →
Whitehorse Inflation Hits 6.1%, Highest in Canada in September
Whitehorse inflation reached 6.1% year-over-year in September 2026, the highest of any Canadian jurisdiction and well above the 3.1% national average. The bureau attributed the rise to travel, transportation, vehicle operation and electricity costs.
2026-10-21 ·
Yukon News →
Laking Urges Federal Energy Support Over Yukon Affordability Concerns
Energy, Mines and Resources Minister Ted Laking told a federal committee that Whitehorse inflation and 34 per cent electricity rate increases threaten affordability. He called for federal support for Yukon energy projects, noting costs are shared by about 24,000 ratepayers.
2026-10-21 ·
Government of Yukon →
Infrastructure & Housing
Yukon Announces Highway and Airport Investments in Fall Capital Budget
The Yukon government proposed transportation investments in its 2027–28 Fall Capital Budget, including $23.6 million to complete 21.6 km of North Klondike Highway reconstruction in 2027. Funding also covers Shakwak corridor rehabilitation, bridge repairs, roadside safety and airport upgrades.
2026-10-19 ·
Government of Yukon →
Overnight Downtown Sewer Rehabilitation Planned October 18 to November 17
The City of Whitehorse's contractor will carry out overnight sanitary sewer rehabilitation on downtown streets from October 18 to November 17, working 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Work proceeds one location at a time, with temporary lane closures and possible minor transit delays.
2026-10-15 ·
City of Whitehorse PSAs →
Kopper King Water Service Shutdown Set for October 30
Water services in the Kopper King area will be shut down Friday, October 30, from about 1 to 3 p.m. while a hydrant is replaced at the McIntyre Creek Booster Station. Residents and businesses are advised to store water in advance if needed.
2026-10-22 ·
City of Whitehorse PSAs →
Education & Youth
Yukon University and employees' union reach three-year collective agreement
Yukon University's Board of Governors approved a new three-year collective agreement with its unionized employees, including a 12.75% wage increase for staff and 10.75% for faculty, and a new teaching stream.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Six Yukon University programs qualify for expanded student loan forgiveness
Yukon University says six of its programs can provide pathways to eligible occupations under expanded federal Canada Student Loan Forgiveness changes, effective December 31, 2025. All Yukon communities are currently eligible.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
New land-based bridging program launches in Dawson City
Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in and Yukon University launched a 12-month, land- and community-based bridging program in Dawson City in January 2026. The program offers flexible, student-led learning guided by Elders and mentors.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Christine Mahar named chair of Yukon University Board of Governors
Christine Mahar has become the new chair of the Yukon University Board of Governors following an Order in Council appointment. Carolyn Relf was newly appointed and Tom Ullyett reappointed to the board.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Peter Johnston Appointed Yukon University Associate VP, Strategic Initiatives
Peter Johnston has been appointed Associate Vice-President, Strategic Initiatives at Yukon University. A member of the Teslin Tlingit Council, he served as its Chief from 2009 to 2012 and held senior government roles for twelve years.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Yukon University Presents Northern Research at UArctic Congress
A ten-member Yukon University delegation attended the University of the Arctic Congress in the Faroe Islands, presenting research on food security, community health, Indigenous youth engagement, tourism and capacity building in small northern communities.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Arts, Culture & Events
Yukon University withdraws from 2026 Arctic Winter Games role
Yukon University and the Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society announced the university will withdraw from its Games role by mutual agreement. The food services contract, venue agreements and badminton hosting are cancelled.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon University →
Road Closures Set for Yukoner Appreciation Week Concert
Parts of Third Avenue and Steele Street in Whitehorse will close October 23–25 for a free all-ages concert hosted by the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce on October 24 at 5 p.m. No parking will be permitted on Steele Street from 7 p.m. Friday.
2026-10-22 ·
City of Whitehorse PSAs →
Upcoming Events
2026 Yukon Forestry Conference set for October 21
Date: Wednesday, Oct 21 | Time: 12:00 PM | Location: Yukon Inn | An opportunity to connect, share ideas and explore how Yukon’s forests can support local jobs, housing, energy and stronger communities.\n
Yukoner Appreciation Week encourages support for local businesses
Date: Thursday, Oct 22 | Time: 12:00 PM | Location: Whitehorse Various Locations | Keep dollars circulating in our community - Support local jobs and Yukon families - Help small businesses grow and stay resilient - Strengthen our local economy year-round!\n
Free Drop-In with Laundry and Showers at VFWC
Date: Thursday, Oct 22 | Time: 6:00 PM | Location: Victoria Faulkner Womens Centre | FREE! Drop-In. A safe welcoming space. Drop-in includes Laundry and Shower. Victoria Faulkner Women\'s Centre.\n
Sally & Sisters Hot Meal for Women and Children
Date: Thursday, Oct 22 | Time: 6:00 PM | Location: Salvation Army 311 Black Street | Sally & Sisters/Soeurs is a welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal in a supportive atmosphere.\n
Sunday Funday Disc Golf at Solstice Disc Golf Park
Date: Sunday, Oct 18 | Time: 7:00 PM | Location: Solstice Disc Golf Park | Make your weekend enjoyable with Sunday Funday disc golf. Play, relax, and celebrate the spirit of disc golf with others.\n
AA Joy of Living Group Meets Thursday Evening
Date: Thursday, Oct 22 | Time: 7:00 PM | Location: 305 Wood St (Captain Martin House, Back Alley, Downstairs) | Have a problem with alcohol? There is a solution. A.A. has a simple program that works. It’s based on one alcoholic helping another.\n
Sundogs Toastmasters Club Meets Thursday at Town & Mountain
Date: Thursday, Oct 22 | Time: 7:00 PM | Location: Town & Mountain Hotel | Sundogs Toastmasters Club. Club is open to all interested parties we provide constructive feedback to help develop public speaking skills.\n
Golden Age Society Bingo Thursday Evening
Date: Thursday, Oct 22 | Time: 7:00 PM | Location: Golden Age Society | ngoJoin Our Golden Age Society Bingo Group! Come enjoy a fun-filled time of games, laughter, and friendly competition. Bring a friend or come make new […]\n
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Drilling at Eight Days Martial Arts
Date: Thursday, Oct 22 | Time: 7:05 PM | Location: Eight Days Martial Arts | This class is very similar to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, only the students typically practice in shorts and a rash guard t-shirt, rather than a Gi. There is also typically a little more wrestling and leg lo
Strength and Conditioning Session at Northern Strength Academy
Date: Thursday, Oct 22 | Time: 8:00 PM | Location: Northern Strength Academy | Exercise to suit your fitness level and Strength & Conditioning Goals. Learn to Squat, Deadlift, Bench Press, Row and Olympic Lift\n
Weather, Travel & Advisories
Whitehorse Open Burn Permits Suspended, Later Reactivated
The City of Whitehorse suspended open burn permits and backyard firepit use on October 20 due to a weather warning for 80 km/h wind gusts. The restrictions were lifted as of 10 a.m. October 21 as conditions improved.
2026-10-19 ·
City of Whitehorse PSAs →
City Urges Residents to Prepare for Winter Snow and Road Conditions
The City of Whitehorse is urging residents to prepare for winter by using winter tires and clearing snow, ice and frost from vehicles. Homeowners must clear sidewalks within 48 hours after snowfall, and Miles Canyon Road is closed for the season.
2026-10-19 ·
City of Whitehorse PSAs →
Obituaries
Colleen Lorraine Emery (née Parkhurst)
Colleen Emery (née Parkhurst), a 94-year-old former educator with ties to Whitehorse, died August 28, 2026, in Edmonton. A celebration of life is scheduled for October 28, 2026, in Edmonton.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon News →
Patricia Eleanor Kohler
Patricia Eleanor Kohler, who moved to the Yukon in 1971 and worked in hospitality and tour driving, died October 10, 2026. Her family has announced her passing.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon News →
Michael Wilfred Misurka
Michael Wilfred Misurka, a 55-year-old pilot who founded his own airline, died October 2, 2026. His family remembered him as a fearless, adventurous person.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon News →
Janet Mary Roberts Wallace
Janet Mary Roberts Wallace, a retired Yukon teacher and former vice-principal at Elijah Smith School, is remembered on the second anniversary of her death on October 26, 2024.
2026-10-22 ·
Yukon News →
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