Mohawk Man Slain in Gambling Feud
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ST. REGIS INDIAN RESERVATION, N. Y. — Gunfire on Tuesday killed a Mohawk Indian. It was the first fatality in nine months of fighting over the issue of casino gambling on the reservation.
Matthew Pyke, 22, was shot in the back while walking on the reservation in Snye, Quebec, during an early-morning gun battle between rival factions. He died after undergoing surgery at Alice Hyde Hospital.
Gambling opponents blamed the reservation’s self-appointed security force for his death and also pointed a finger at Gov. Mario M. Cuomo, who they said had let the situation get out of control.
There also was shooting at St. Regis, and shots were fired at the refugee center on Cornwall Island.
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