CeaseFire Halifax held a march on Saturday in Dartmouth to remember Rickey Walker, a 48-year-old man who was killed on Thursday. It was the second gathering in as many weeks.
“It’s been difficult for us but we’re there to support one another,” said Amanda Bradshaw, community mobiliser for CeaseFire Halifax.
“We’ve been seeing communities wrapping around the individuals affected by this. It’s absolutely amazing.”
Police said Walker called them shortly before 3 a.m. on September 1 to report he had been shot. When officers arrived on scene they found him behind John McNeil Elementary School on Leamon Drive. He was transported to hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
His death was one of eight other homicide in the Halifax area this year, five of which remain unsolved.
READ MORE: Police investigating after man fatally shot in Dartmouth
“It just goes to show enough is enough. We can’t deal with this anymore. The violence has gotten way too far out of hand. I mean, one is too many. But this is just crazy,” said Bradshaw.
More than 100 people came to show their support for the Walker family on Saturday.
Brandon Walker said his uncle Rickey was a father figure to him.
“He gave me guidance. He was more than your typical uncle. He played more than one role in my family to me and I’m forever grateful.”
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Walker said his family is finding comfort in kindness of others during this difficult time.
“The outpouring of support from the community is probably the biggest thing that’s keeping our family going right now. Everyone is being very, very kind, being very courteous during this time of need,” he said.
Walker is calling for people to stand up against violence and take back their communities. He is also encouraging anyone with information related to his uncle’s death to contact police.
“If you see something, if you know something, let people know. Let somebody with authority know. Create awareness.”
As of Saturday, police have yet to identify a suspect.
Walker said his family is asking people to donate to CeaseFire Halifax in honour of his late uncle.
“They’re a great organization. They’ve done a lot to help me and I greatly appreciate it.”