Though the impact of the Bradshaw Drive shootings will be felt for some time, an upcoming community gathering will offer a chance for residents to come together and start the healing process.
Stratford Mayor Martin Ritsma has talked to members of the Council of Churches, Stratford Police Service and leaders at organizations that include the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and Victim Services Huron Perth.
All played a part in getting the community gathering together, scheduled for Aug. 29, 6-8 p.m. at the Stratford Rotary Complex.
Ritsma said it’s important to get residents together.
“For people just to be in the same room together. Share the stories, share their impact. Hear other people share theirs. I think that’s really, really important.”
Ritsma emphasized it will not be an event for speeches from local leaders, but instead a chance for residents to speak, if they wish, about the impact.
He says having leaders from different organizations there will help with that.
On Aug. 1, Ricky Bilcke, 31, shot three victims after a neighbour dispute, before ending his own life. The shooter killed Jonathan Bennett, age 36.
David Tokley was also shot and got through a lengthy surgery after arriving at hospital with life-threatening injuries. Bennett’s partner, Stephanie Irvine, has life-altering injuries.
“We know people were directly impacted and indirectly and we know people still struggle from what happened. We need to reassure them we are journeying together as we move forward.”
Ritsma said a community the size of Stratford is not immune to social challenges.
