Stratford Mayor Martin Ritsma said the recent shootings on Bradshaw Drive have impacted all residents in the Festival City.
The mayor, who addressed the incident at city council Monday night, has talked to residents who are still fearful and weary after the Aug. 1 shootings.
Everyone is processing what happened differently, the mayor says.
Thirty-one-year old Ricky Bilcke shot three victims after a neighbour dispute, before ending his own life.
The shooter killed Jonathan Bennett, age 36.
Ritsma told MyStratfordNow that his thoughts have been with the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as those targeted by the shooting, but also for the community at large.
Everyone has been impacted, he suggested.
“We are still going through some grieving here,” he said.
Ritsma was in London last Friday. He spoke with David Tokley, who got through a lengthy surgery after arriving with life-threatening injuries.
The mayor also chatted with another victim, Bennett’s partner, Stephanie Irvine, who has life-altering injuries.
“Certainly a blessing to visit with them,” the mayor said.
Ritsma made a visit to Bradshaw Drive, several days after the shooting.
He initially held off on attending, while the crime scene remained intact and emotions were running high for residents.
Ritsma spoke with some residents about what happened and was able to see some regular sights on the street – a person washing their car, another walking a dog or just hanging out on the front steps.
Certainly different from when police responded to multiple 911 calls about gun shots on the night of the shootings.
The mayor said it was also a difficult night for all first responders.
Neighbours could hear gun shots that night.
In his address to council Monday, Ritsma reminded all that there are resources in the community to help struggling residents, and reiterated that again to MyStratfordNow.
“If you are struggling, whether you are directly related or indirectly related we do have Victim Services Huron Perth who are waiting to provide support to you.”
The mayor has reached out to the Council of Churches to see what can be done to facilitate a community gathering to share experiences.
