Christine Angelis faces the heartbreaking task of rebuilding a memorial for her daughter, Keisha Garie, for the second time in less than a month. Keisha and her fiancé, Umair Kasim, tragically lost their lives in front of Burnaby’s Alpha Secondary four years ago, and their murders remain unsolved.
Recently, the memorial was desecrated in broad daylight, with cherished items like teddy bears, flowers, signs, messages, and a photo of Keisha stolen. Expressing her disbelief and sorrow, Angelis questioned how anyone could lack empathy for a life lost to violence.
Despite the repeated acts of vandalism, Angelis remains steadfast in honoring her daughter’s memory. She vows to persist in rebuilding the memorial, refusing to let the perpetrator erase the love and remembrance shared by Keisha’s friends and family.
Amid the destruction, a note was found demanding the removal of Keisha’s photo, but Angelis emphasizes that the majority of the community has been supportive. She finds solace in the kind words and gestures of those who visit the memorial, acknowledging the emotional toll these events have taken on her and her loved ones.
Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley has offered support for establishing a more permanent memorial at the site, while the RCMP urges anyone with information to come forward and assist in their investigation.
Keyphrase: Memorial for Keisha
