On Friday night, the air in Tumbler Ridge had a bite to it, but it was nothing compared with the grief that has surrounded the South Peace community since Tuesday.
At a vigil in front of town hall, mourners gathered to honour the lives lost and support one another after the shootings.
Countless teddy bears, bouquets of flowers and other mementos sat on the steps, where residents later received messages of hope from political leaders, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre and B.C. Premier David Eby.
The three leaders, along with several community, faith and government representatives who took to the podium just after 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, commended the community for its resilience. They said the strength and support residents have shown one another will help carry them through the days ahead.
As the leaders spoke, attendees stood silent, candles burning in their hands. Before Mayor Darryl Krakowka began the vigil, some guests picked up complimentary candles set inside cups from a table at the back of the crowd.
Others handed out small blue ribbons with safety pins to attach to parkas, sweaters and jackets.
For the first time in days, voices filled the air in Tumbler Ridge. Neighbours and friends who had not seen each other since the incident caught up as they waited for dusk, when the vigil was scheduled to begin.
After the mayor invited people to place their candles and mementos on the steps, a crowd formed. People moved toward the staircase to pay their respects, leave donations or take in the scene.
Krakowka told attendees to stay as long as they needed. He remained afterward to speak with residents.
By the end of the night, the steps were filled with donations and candles. Dozens lined either side of the staircase, with others placed among flowers and stuffed animals arranged around centrepieces, including a wooden “TR.” The wind may blow out the candles, but residents suggested it will take more to shake the community’s spirit.
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