– Survivor of Ottawa attack feeling supported by community
– Ottawa attack survivor receiving community support.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Heartbreaking Tragedy Strikes Ottawa: Sole Survivor Reflects on Mass Killing

The city of Ottawa is reeling from a devastating mass killing that claimed the lives of six individuals, leaving the sole survivor, Dhanushka Wickramasinghe, grappling with unimaginable loss. As Wickramasinghe recovers from his injuries in the hospital, the community is coming together to show their support in this time of grief.

A Community in Mourning

Naradha Kodituwakku of the Buddhist Congress of Canada visited Wickramasinghe in the hospital, where he witnessed the profound impact of the tragedy on his friend. Wickramasinghe, who lost his wife and children in the attack, is facing the daunting prospect of rebuilding his life without his loved ones by his side.

Despite the overwhelming grief, Wickramasinghe showed compassion towards the man now charged in the deaths of his family. The accused, 19-year-old Febrio De-Zoysa, faces multiple counts of first-degree murder and attempted murder. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, adding to the shock and devastation felt by the Sri Lankan community in Ottawa.

Support and Solidarity

As Wickramasinghe navigates this harrowing journey of loss and recovery, his brother and father are set to arrive from Sri Lanka to offer their support. The outpouring of public support has been a source of strength for Wickramasinghe, who expressed gratitude for the community standing by his side during this difficult time.

A vigil is planned to honour the victims of the tragedy, providing a space for neighbours, friends, and strangers to come together in solidarity. The Sri Lankan community is rallying around the families affected by the senseless act of violence, with a GoFundMe campaign launched to assist with funeral expenses and support the survivors.

Remembering the Victims

The victims of the tragedy, all Sri Lankan nationals, include Darshani Ekanayake and her four children, as well as Gamini Amarakoon Amarakoon Mudiyanselage. The loss of innocent lives, including young children, has left the community in shock and disbelief.

Neighbours and community members have gathered to mourn the loss of the family, laying flowers, lighting candles, and offering words of comfort. The impact of the tragedy reverberates through the close-knit community, as they grapple with the incomprehensible loss of four young children.

Seeking Justice and Healing

As the investigation into the mass killing continues, the community remains united in seeking justice for the victims and their families. The tragic events have left a deep scar on the city of Ottawa, prompting reflection on the importance of coming together in times of adversity.

Through acts of kindness, compassion, and solidarity, the community aims to honour the memory of those lost and support the survivors as they navigate the challenging path towards healing and recovery.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on March 8, 2024.

— With files from Mickey Djuric in Ottawa.

Anja Karadeglija, Stephanie Taylor and Nojoud Al Mallees, The Canadian Press

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version misspelled Naradha Kodituwakku’s last name.

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– Survivor of Ottawa attack feeling support from community
– Ottawa attack survivor receiving overwhelming community support.