Candles flicker, La Loche shooting victims remembered, at Regina vigil

REGINA – Hundreds of people turned out for a candlelight vigil in Regina Wednesday night to honour those who were killed or wounded in last week’s shooting in La Loche, Sask.

The event was organized by teachers, but students, police, politicians and others were in the large crowd that walked from the Royal Saskatchewan Museum to the legislature.

A moment of silence was observed and participants sang Bill Withers’ 1972 hit song “Lean On Me.”

Organizers say the vigil was southern Saskatchewan’s way to extend a hand to the remote northern community.

Similar events were also held Wednesday evening in Saskatoon and Prince Albert.

A 17-year-old boy is facing four charges of first-degree murder and seven of attempted murder after last Friday’s shooting at a home and the regional school in La Loche.

Teacher Lyndsay Moskal said she never thought a shooting like this would happen in Saskatchewan.

“The tragedy is so close to home. Dealing with different situations and different demographics, it was important for me to be here to support,” she said.

“We wish the best for them,” said aboriginal elder Norma-Jean Byrd. “We need to say prayers for them, their families and all the people in the community. This is a tragic, tragic thing because it harms the whole community.”

The first of four funerals is scheduled for this weekend. (CJME, CTV Regina)