Abel Mwansa, a beloved 12-year-old, is being fondly remembered by those who knew him as patient, kind, and respectful. Tragically, he was one of the victims in the recent shooting incident in Tumbler Ridge.
Lydia Mannion, a close friend of the Mwansa family, shared that Abel’s family had moved to Tumbler Ridge from Zambia in March 2023 in search of a better life. Abel, described as bright and inquisitive, showed a keen interest in learning about his new surroundings in the small B.C. town.
Despite the stark differences from his home country, Abel eagerly embraced the new experiences, including engaging in activities like joining the local soccer club and learning the intricacies of hockey. He was determined to become a referee and diligently attended skating sessions to improve his skills.
Beyond his pursuits, Abel was a caring older brother to his younger siblings, taking on responsibilities like feeding and looking after his baby brother to support his mother.
Tragically, Abel’s life was cut short in the shooting, where his final moments were marked by selflessness and courage as he was helping his friends. His family, devastated by the loss, had been preparing for his upcoming 13th birthday celebration but are now grappling with the reality of planning his funeral.
Despite the immense grief, Mannion shared that the family finds solace in their faith, believing that they will be reunited with Abel one day.
