Editor:
In the wake of the fatal pedestrian incident that occurred on July 10 at Sunnycrest Mall in Gibsons, Sunshine Coast RCMP wishes to extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and to all community members impacted by this tragic event.
The pain of witnessing such a loss has resonated deeply throughout our community. We have heard from many of you, those who were present, those who knew the individual and those who simply care. Your grief is valid, and your compassion is felt. This is a time for healing, and we encourage anyone affected to access support through our Victim Services or other community mental health resources.
We also want to take this opportunity to speak to an important aspect of public safety during active police investigations.
While the tragedy itself may not be criminal in nature, the work of police and other emergency responders at an accident scene is critical. Every action taken, from examining physical evidence to speaking with witnesses, is done to reveal the full picture of what happened. In these moments, we ask the public to give the police officers the space they need to do their jobs safely, efficiently and with the dignity the victim and their family deserve.
Crowding around scenes, taking photos or approaching officers during sensitive operations can interfere with investigations and delay important work. More importantly, it can compound the trauma for others, loved ones and witnesses, who are already enduring something unimaginable as well as our community first responders.
This is not just about respecting the process. It's about respecting the life that was lost and the people left grieving in its wake.
Please continue to keep the family, the witnesses and our first responders in your thoughts. Let’s come together as a community with empathy, understanding and a shared commitment to supporting one another in the most respectful way possible.
Thank-you,
Staff Sgt. Jennifer Prunty
Detachment Commander
Sunshine Coast RCMP
