Fredericton community gathers to honor victims of tragic shooting
The city of Fredericton, New Brunswick came together on Sunday to pay tribute to the victims of the tragic shooting that took place on Friday. The memorial, held at the Fredericton Convention Centre, was attended by hundreds of community members, including family and friends of the victims, as well as local officials and law enforcement.
The ceremony began with a moment of silence to honor the four victims who lost their lives in the shooting: Const. Robb Costello, Const. Sara Burns, Donnie Robichaud, and Bobbie Lee Wright. The silence was followed by a moving rendition of “Amazing Grace” performed by a local choir.
Mayor Mike O’Brien addressed the crowd, expressing his condolences and gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. “We are a strong and resilient city, and we will get through this together,” he said.
The families of the victims also spoke, sharing memories and stories of their loved ones. Donnie Robichaud’s daughter, Amanda, spoke of her father’s love for his family and his passion for helping others. “He was a hero in every sense of the word,” she said.
The memorial also included a tribute to the first responders who bravely responded to the shooting. Fredericton Police Chief Leanne Fitch praised the officers for their courage and dedication. “They put their lives on the line to protect our community, and we are forever grateful,” she said.
The community has also come together to support the families of the victims. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover funeral expenses and support the families during this difficult time. The page has already raised over $200,000, a testament to the generosity and compassion of the Fredericton community.
As the memorial came to a close, attendees were invited to lay flowers and light candles in memory of the victims. The outpouring of love and support was a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the Fredericton community.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the community continues to mourn the loss of four beloved members. But as the memorial showed, the people of Fredericton will stand together in the face of tragedy, united in their grief and determination to honor the lives of those lost.