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Sombre anniversary marked in La Loche, Sask.

Residents console each other at the memorial near the La Loche Community School in La Loche, Sask., on Sunday January 24, 2016. Leaders in a remote Saskatchewan community will speak today about the recovery from a deadly school shooting that happened almost a year ago.
Residents console each other at the memorial near the La Loche Community School in La Loche, Sask., on Sunday January 24, 2016. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered a message of hope on second anniversary of La Loche shooting. Jason Franson / The Canadian Press

A somber anniversary is being remembered in La Loche.

Two years ago, on Jan. 22, 2016, a mass shooting took place in the northern Saskatchewan community.

A 17-year-old boy shot and killed Dayne and Drayden Fontaine at their home.

He then proceeded to the community’s high school, where he opened fire, killing teacher Adam Wood and teacher’s aide Marie Janvier.

Seven other people were wounded.

“Two years later, the people of La Loche continue the process of healing,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a statement.

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“Each day, this community demonstrated its strength and resilience. La Loche continues to come together, rebuild, and move forward with hope.”

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“On behalf of the government of Canada, Sophie and I ask all Canadians to reflect on this solemn anniversary, and to remember all those whose lives were forever changed that day. To the whole La Loche community, please know that you are in our thoughts, and continue to have our unwavering support.”

The youth pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder and seven counts of attempted murder.

He remains in custody and is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 23.

At issue is whether he will be sentenced as an adult or a youth.

He faces six years of custody and four years of probation if sentenced as a youth, but a life sentence as an adult.

Some victims told court during the sentencing hearing that the teen should be sentenced as an adult because of the severity of his crimes.

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With files from The Canadian Press

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