Close X
Thursday, January 16, 2025
ADVT 
National

Vigils tonight for doctor killed at walk-in clinic

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 14 Aug, 2020 08:00 PM
  • Vigils tonight for doctor killed at walk-in clinic

Two vigils are planned Friday evening for a family doctor who was killed at a walk-in clinic in central Alberta earlier this week.

Dr. Walter Reynolds, a 45-year-old father of two girls, died in hospital after he was attacked Monday morning at the Village Mall clinic in Red Deer.

Deng Mabiour, 54, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Reynolds, as well as assault with a weapon and assaulting a police officer.

The Alberta Medical Association, which is organizing the vigils in Red Deer and Edmonton, is asking doctors who attend to wear white lab coats or white clothing to honour Reynolds.

Police have said Mabiour and Reynolds knew each other through the clinic, but did not say whether Mabiour was a patient.

One witness told media that she heard cries for help and a man in the clinic had a hammer and a machete.

Police have released few details about the man accused of killing Reynolds, but an acquaintance of Mabiour said the 54-year-old came to Canada from South Sudan.

Deng Wil Luol Deng, who lives in South Sudan but knows Mabiour from the community in Red Deer, said earlier this week he was shocked by the allegations.

The Sudanese Community of Central Alberta said in a statement Friday that they "strongly condemn the senseless killing of our friend, citizen and loving doctor."

"We want the family of Dr. Reynolds to know that we are deeply sorry for your loss, and we share in your pain," said the statement signed by the community group's chairman, Justin Jukeria.

"Dr. Reynolds was one of the best doctors in our beloved city of Red Deer. He was a fabulous and loving physician who has served our community and the wider Red Deer community with integrity, care, compassion, selflessness and dignity."

The group said they are keen to know what allegedly transpired between Reynolds and Mabiour, adding that they strongly believe in the Canadian legal system.

Mabiour appeared in court via video Wednesday, saying he "doesn't remember" and is sick and needs a doctor. His case was put over to September.

The clinic where Reynolds worked has described him as a devoted husband, father and doctor who came to Canada from South Africa in 2003.

Reynolds and his wife, Anelia, first lived in Manitoba then moved to Red Deer in 2006, said a statement from the Village Mall clinic.

"From the delivery room to the hospice, he dedicated himself 100 per cent," the statement said.

"If there was a task at work that needed to be done, he would step up to the plate. If a patient needed help, he walked the extra mile ... and then some."

Reynolds and his wife were often seen jogging around the neighbourhood. He was an avid runner, often participating in marathons and mud races, the clinic said.

"If there was a campsite to explore, then they were there. Always exploring, always an adventure, always on the move ... so full of life."

A GoFundMe page was set up to raise funds for the education of Reynolds' children. It reached more than $250,000 Friday morning.

The vigils, both scheduled for 7 p.m., are to take place outside Red Deer City Hall and Edmonton City Hall.

MORE National ARTICLES

COVID-19 Response: AbbyPD Services

COVID-19 Response: AbbyPD Services
The safety of our citizens our personnel remain the top priority of the Abbotsford Police Department.  These are challenging times, and the AbbyPD appreciates the on-going support and cooperation from our community.  We WILL get through this together. 

COVID-19 Response: AbbyPD Services

I Am Proud Of Our Residents For Their Calm And Resolve During This Time: Mayor Doug McCallum

While we are doing everything to ensure for a smooth continuation, I would ask the people of Surrey for their patience given the fast-changing nature of events.

I Am Proud Of Our Residents For Their Calm And Resolve During This Time: Mayor Doug McCallum

Dire Scenario For Intensive Care Even If Covid-19 Infection Rate Drops: Study

A study by Toronto epidemiologists suggests that Canada's largest province could run out of intensive care beds and ventilators by late April, even assuming a sharp drop in the current infection rate.    

Dire Scenario For Intensive Care Even If Covid-19 Infection Rate Drops: Study

Sobeys Installs Plexiglas Shields, Other Measures, To Fight Spread Of COVID-19

Sobeys Installs Plexiglas Shields, Other Measures, To Fight Spread Of COVID-19
Grocers, which have seen demand spike as coronavirus fears prompt people to flock to stores and stockpile supplies, made moves to give their staff time to restock shelves and clean stores, as well as other measures.    

Sobeys Installs Plexiglas Shields, Other Measures, To Fight Spread Of COVID-19

Manitoba Government Cuts Some Taxes, Sets Money Aside For Emergencies

WINNIPEG - The Manitoba government is keeping a tight leash on spending and delaying some promised tax cuts as it prepares for the economic fallout from COVID-19.

Manitoba Government Cuts Some Taxes, Sets Money Aside For Emergencies

Asylum Seekers To Be Turned Back At U.S. Border, Prime Minister Says

Asylum Seekers To Be Turned Back At U.S. Border, Prime Minister Says
OTTAWA - Asylum seekers crossing into Canada on foot from the U.S. will be turned back as part of the border shutdown between the two countries.

Asylum Seekers To Be Turned Back At U.S. Border, Prime Minister Says