Today is the third anniversary of the fatal shooting in La Loche, which killed four people and seriously injured seven others.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is expected in the northern community Wednesday for a funding announcement, marked the day as a day of remembrance.
“On this solemn anniversary, we remember the victims, and offer our deepest sympathies to everyone who continues to live with the pain and trauma from that horrific day,” Trudeau said in a statement. “In a tragedy like this one, words will never be enough. The victims were young, with their whole lives in front of them. When they were taken away from us, so were their hopes and dreams for the future. Such loss is immeasurable.”
The tragedy has prompted calls for the provincial government to investment more into mental health services in remote and northern communities.
A judge scolded the provincial government for a lack of supports to the community of La Loche in the wake and years following a deadly shooting.
Yet Premier Scott Moe defended the investments, despite Mayor Robert St. Pierre saying not much mental health supports have come to the community.
The shooter, who cannot be identified due to a publication ban was sentenced to life in prison. He is appealing his sentence, yet a hearing date has yet to be set.
(PHOTO: The scene outside the La Loche courtroom during one of several hearings. File photo.)