Vaughan lowers flags to half-mast marking 1-year anniversary of Bellaria condo shooting
5 people were killed after a mass shooting at the Bellaria Residences condominium in the area of Jane Street and Rutherford Road on Dec.18, 2022
Yorkregion.com
Dec. 19, 2023
Brian Capitao
The City of Vaughan has lowered flags at City Hall and all city facilities to half-mast to honour the memory of the victims of the Bellaria condo shooting.
Five people were killed after a mas shooting at the Bellaria Residences condominium in the area of Jane Street and Rutherford Road on Dec.18, 2022.
“One year ago today, our city was shattered by the news that a gunman had unleashed an unimaginable attack at the Bellaria Condominiums," Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca said in a prepared statement.
"It was a horrific day from which we will never fully heal. Despite the pain of this heinous action, our city came together in support of the victims’ families and each other."
A candlelight vigil was held in the immediate aftermath of the attacks allowing the community to come together and share their grief after the tragedy occurred.
"I have lived in Vaughan for over three decades and have always known our community to be tight-knit," Del Duca said. "Still, the outpouring of love and compassion following this unspeakable horror is something I’ll remember for the rest of my life."
In February and March of this year, the city held meetings with the residents of Bellaria, which included presentations by York Regional Police and offered an opportunity to ask questions. Feedback included a need for more funding for Victim Services of York Region, which York Region Council approved.
"My council colleagues and I remain committed to helping contribute to the long-term recovery from this tragedy," Del Duca said. "We continue to work with other levels of government, our community safety partners, our Emergency Management Program Committee and others to ensure communication remains open and our city is safe."
This past summer, the city also unveiled a memorial at Julliard Park that honoured the victims, which reads: Vaughan Council dedicates this memorial space in loving memory of the five innocent residents who lost their lives during the December 18, 2022, shooting: Rita Camilleri, Vittorio Panza, Naveed Dada, Helen “Lorraine” Manock, Russell Manock. The City further recognizes survivor Doreen Di Nino. Our entire community grieves with the family, friends and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. Dedicated on July 6, 2023.
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