Hundreds of vehicles turned out Saturday night for a drive-thru vigil honouring the victims of last weekend’s horrific stabbing spree in Lynn Valley.
The Lynn Canyon Park event was co-organized by the Lynn Valley Lions Club and Lynn Valley Legion, and featured creative lighting displays, music and art created by local elementary school children.
“I think that’s how we begin to heal as a community, as a group. A lot of that has to do with coming together,” Lynn Valley Lions Club president Eric Miura said.
“And in such a challenging period, it takes the cooperation at all levels of government and people to make that happen. And it really shows the strength of the community when we rally.”
The event was drive-thru only, and saw vehicles follow a path along Ross Road through the park.
Miura stressed that foot traffic and congregating were not permitted in order to keep the event COVID-19 safe.
“You know, you get tested during these difficult times and to be able to really rally and put this together in such a short time, having all of the local elementary schools drop what they’re doing, participate and engage safely, it’s the creativity that it takes and adapting and making sure it’s done properly,” Miura said.
“It brings the strength of the community together. And that really is what it’s about after such a tragic event, is it shows that everyone does care.”
Six people were taken to hospital and one was killed, following what police say was a random knife attack at the Lynn Valley Library last Saturday.
The suspect, 28-year-old Yannick Bandaogo who recently resided in Quebec, has been charged with second-degree murder.
Homicide investigators are still trying to determine a motive in the attack.
The Lynn Valley Library reopened to the public on Wednesday. The entrance is now a makeshift memorial. Library staff said they hope the reopening will help the community heal.