The Town of Banff is coordinating support services for a community in shock after a late-night incident claimed the life of a long-time local resident. RCMP has the authority to release the individual’s name after they have communicated with family.
"On behalf of the community, I send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the young man taken from us in the prime of his life. We are shocked, angry, and heartbroken that a senseless act has robbed us of a cherished Banffite, and we mourn this immense loss with all who knew and loved him,” said Corrie DiManno, Mayor of Banff.
“As Banffites, we always rally to take care of each other in difficult times so I know we will come together to offer our support and comfort to his family and friends. It's crucially important that residents know there are support services, counselling, and people available to talk to as they begin to process and grieve this tragedy. Please know you are not alone and we will get through this dark time together.”
This type of incident is so unusual for Banff that many residents in the tight-knit community are shocked and deeply saddened.
The Town is encouraging people in Banff to contact Bow Valley Victim Services at 403.760.0197 for support through this painful time. After hours, the 2-1-1 help service connects callers to mental health or counselling support.
Walk-in urgent mental health support is also available at the Banff hospital from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., 7 days a week. After 9 p.m., people can also go to the emergency room.
The Town is also holding a drop-in support session in Town Hall’s Council Chambers, Friday, Aug. 5, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. for people in the community to connect with a friendly face and access further professional support services. Mental health support will be on-site to help as individuals try to absorb what has occurred.
Banff RCMP asks anyone with information about the incident to contact the local detachment at 403.762.2226.