More than $40,000 was raised to support victims of the Tumbler Ridge shooting from an event hosted by the Fort St John RCMP last weekend.
Three-quarters of this amount was raised during, and prior to, the event last Saturday, Feb. 14. The remainder was collected as donations continued rolling in after the fundraiser’s grills served more than 600 burgers, as well as pizzas provided by a local shop.
“(It was) overwhelming for us all. I will admit that the amount was definitely higher than we expected. Having said that, though, we’ve lived in this community for a while and, you know, it’s almost expected. The community just has a great heart,” said Sgt. Dwayne Croll of the Fort St John RCMP.
A card was at the barbecue for signatures and will be sent to the south Peace district. Funds will be donated to a trust arranged by a parental association for the school in Tumbler Ridge.
“We consider Tumbler Ridge our neighbouring community. So, it was the least we could do,” said Croll.
“Many members within this detachment responded to that call of service for that particular day, and, as you can imagine, along with all the other members from the supporting detachments in the area as well, are being deeply impacted by this. And we’re all a big family here at the Fort St John detachment,” he explained.
Local businesses and non-police volunteers came together to coordinate the event and provide food, barbecues, tents, and portable restrooms, according to a statement from the Mounties thanking the public.
“The generosity shown by our residents, volunteers, and businesses is truly remarkable. Your support will make a meaningful difference for the Tumbler Ridge community during a tragic time, and we are grateful to serve a region that stands together so strongly,” said Sgt. Jamie Moffat, the acting officer in charge of the detachment.
Police will continue accepting donations for the time being.
“There (are) still funds coming in. Again, we’re not doing a fundraiser per se – like the barbecue – but there’s definitely funds coming in,” said Croll.
Anyone looking to contribute can drop a cheque off at the front desk of Fort St John’s detachment. E-transfers are also being accepted.
