WARNING: This story contains discussion of intimate partner violence.
Hundreds of candles shone brightly as Londoners celebrated the life of Breanna Broadfoot, the 17-year-old who was stabbed to death last week, vowed to take action against intimate partner violence and sang “This Little Light of Mine.”
More than 200 people, including family and local residents, attended a candlelight vigil at Ed Blake Park on Wednesday, organised by Broadfoot’s brother, Lucas.
“I didn’t expect [the large turnout]”It’s really touching to see so many people in the community supporting me, Bre and the many other victims we are able to help,” Lucas, 15, said.
“I thought this was the best way to bring the community together to fight this epidemic that is eating our country from the inside out. And I believe it will bring us together and help in the fight against domestic violence.”
Broadfoot died in hospital on July 18, two days after he was stabbed at a home in the city’s east side in an incident police are linking to domestic violence. Police said an 18-year-old man who confronted officers with a knife was shot by officers and later died in hospital.
According to court documents obtained by CBC News, Khupau Moo, 18, of London, was charged with assault and assault by choking, suffocation or strangulation after the incident that allegedly happened in March. The documents list Broadfoot as the victim and describe the incident as a case of intimate partner violence.
Breonna Charles, left, and Bella Dentelbeck remember laughing with Broadfoot during class and said they hope to remember him for his “beautiful blue eyes and the sweetest smile.” (Isha Bhargava/CBC)
Friends of Ms Broadfoot, who attended Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School, said they were still in disbelief and trying to recover from the shock of her death, and that Ms Broadfoot had not confided in them what was going on in her relationship.
“At first I didn’t fully believe it, but then I quickly understood why and I was shocked. I really hoped she would find the help she needed,” Bella Dentelbeck said.
Many speakers spoke of the importance of recognising the signs of abuse and taking action against violence against women. Speakers included Ms Broadfoot’s family and supporters, London Assembly Member Terence Carnahan and Dan Jennings, whose daughter Caitlin was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend in July 2023. London police were also in attendance.
Breanna Broadfoot’s family, parents Brett and Jessica Broadfoot, and her son Lucas and his girlfriend Ally, say they are proud that Broadfoot’s organs could have saved the lives of five other people.(Isha Bhargava/CBC)
Joe Quigg and Heather Trevithick did not know the grieving family well but their daughter was close friends with Ms Broadfoot and came to the event to show their support. The couple wore T-shirts with a logo that read “Love doesn’t hurt”.
“Love shouldn’t hurt physically and it rarely hurts emotionally either. I need to teach my daughters that there should never be physical contact when they’re dating someone,” said Trevithick, who herself has lost loved ones to intimate partner violence.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare. It could happen to anyone’s daughter and that’s what’s terrifying.”
Heather Trevithick and Joe Quigg, along with Broadfoot’s friend Tavia LaPier (center), stand wearing T-shirts that read “Love shouldn’t hurt” next to purple ribbons, a symbol against intimate partner violence. (Isha Bhargava/CBC)
The Center for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children at Western University found that the group most at risk for domestic violence and domestic homicide are 15-24 year olds.
“As a young person, I have to recognise what’s wrong because the majority of the deaths and hospitalisations are my age. We need to be on the lookout for signs of abuse and hold everyone accountable,” Ms Broadfoot’s brother Lucas said.
Ms Broadfoot was entering Year 12 at high school and hoped to become a child psychologist. After her death, six of her organs were donated to five different people.
“Her heart is still beating and she’s in five different places right now. When you look up at the stars you see our daughter Breanna dancing and helping others,” her father, Brett Broadfoot, told the crowd.
Artist Brona Morgan created a chalk piece in memory of Breanna Broadfoot at Ed Blake Park. (Isha Bhargava/CBC)
If you or someone you know is suffering, here are some places to get help:
Victims of family or intimate partner violence can get support through crisis lines and local support services. If you are in immediate danger or concerned about your safety or the safety of those around you, call 911.
In London, support is also available through Anova, Atlosha Native Family Healing Services, London Abused Women’s Centre, Regional Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre and Victim Services of Middlesex-London.
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