“Harbour Grace Easter Tragedy: Investigation Continues into Homicide of Adam Mercer | SEO-Optimized Title”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Muskrat Falls Project: A Costly Endeavor Finally Commissioned

In August 2019, a file photo of Muskrat Falls showcased the completion of a project that burdened the province for years. After enduring numerous delays and cost overruns amounting to billions, the Muskrat Falls project was ultimately commissioned on April 12. The final piece of the puzzle, the Labrador-Island Link, successfully passed its second round of high-powered testing on April 8. However, critics of the project deemed the commissioning premature, expressing concerns regarding the lack of testing with 900-megawatt loads. The full financial impact of this troubled project is expected to impact ratepayers in 2024, with final costs yet to be announced.

Snow Crab Fishery Conflict Intensifies

In April, the conflict in the snow crab fishery reached new heights. The price of crab was set at $2.20 per pound, a price that the FFAW (Fish, Food, and Allied Workers Union) deemed “unsustainable”. As a result, harvesters refused to venture out to sea, leaving their boats tied up. What followed was a months-long battle between the FFAW and the Association of Seafood Producers (ASP), which unfolded in the media, government meetings, and even on the streets as harvesters rallied for a higher price. The ASP stood firm in their position, refusing to negotiate further on the price. The back-and-forth spilled over to the House of Assembly, with the opposition and government clashing numerous times during the spring sitting. Amidst calls from the FFAW, Premier Andrew Furey revealed that the province had written to the federal government, requesting flexibility on employment insurance qualifications for those affected by the delay. The resolution for this billion-dollar industry conflict would not be reached until late May.

Memorial University President’s Departure Amid Controversy

In April, Memorial University, the province’s sole university, faced a significant development. Following a six-week paid leave of absence, President Vianne Timmons announced her decision to step down. This decision came after facing intense scrutiny over her claims of Indigenous ancestry, particularly after accepting an Indspire Award, described as “the highest honour the Indigenous community bestows upon its own people.” Timmons had also faced criticism for personal spending outlined in her contract, tuition hikes, and her treatment of vocal critics of her leadership. Following her departure, it was revealed that her exit was deemed “without cause,” entitling her to nearly $700,000 in severance pay. Both MUNFA (Memorial University Faculty Association) and MUNSU (Memorial University of Newfoundland Students’ Union) expressed their concerns following Timmons’ departure, calling for a change in the university’s process of selecting its next president. In the meantime, Dr. Neil Bose was appointed to the role on an interim basis.

Arrests Made in Historic Sexual Assault Cases

On April 10, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) made two arrests in St. John’s. 80-year-old Bruce Escott and 62-year-old Tony Humby were taken into custody in connection with an investigation into historic incidents of sexual assault against young people, dating as far back as 1995. Additional charges were subsequently added against both men over the following days and throughout 2023. In June, two properties near Hussey Drive were seized as part of the investigation. The police continued to add charges as both men made court appearances. In total, Humby faces 32 charges, while Escott faces 14 charges related to 11 individuals, according to the RNC. Both men remain in custody, and the matter is currently before the courts.

Unsolved Easter Tragedy Grips Harbour Grace

On April 11, authorities discovered a body in a burned-out vehicle in the vicinity of Glover Road in Harbour Grace. The victim was later identified as 34-year-old Adam Mercer, who was last seen alive on Easter Sunday. In the following week, the police ruled the case a homicide and initiated an extensive investigation. On April 26, the police released additional details, stating their belief that multiple individuals were involved in the murder and that they had identified various suspects and suspect vehicles. The police also appealed to the public to come forward with any information, as their investigation indicated that there were still witnesses yet to come forward. To date, no arrests have been made, and the investigation into this tragic event continues.

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