Statement from Mayor Krog on death of Burnaby RCMP Constable Shaelyn Yang

STATEMENT - Distributed October 20, 2022 10:10 AM

On behalf of Nanaimo Council, I offer my condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of Burnaby RCMP Constable Shaelyn Yang who was killed in the line of duty on Oct. 18. Const. Yang worked with the mental health outreach team, serving some of the most vulnerable people in her community.

The public safety professionals, like Const. Yang, who dedicate their talents and energy so that our communities can function, work quietly in the corners of our cities and towns where our most vulnerable residents live.

We would prefer that all people who need health care services would have ready access. We would prefer that the small number of people who disrupt the orderly functioning of businesses, community organizations and the homes of residents were better controlled. We would like there to be homes for everyone who needs one. But this is not the world we live in.

Cities and towns across the country are dealing with the results of failed policies. When people in need continue to struggle with mental illness and addictions without adequate health care, housing and other critical supports, public safety officers step in. Sometimes those interactions go well and sometimes they go badly.

While people continue to succumb to toxic drugs and the effects of trauma, poverty, illness and displacement, we will continue to find solutions and ways to support them.
At the same time, we rely on public safety professionals to maintain order and ensure everyone has the ability to carry out their daily lives.

Today, I would like to say thank you to the many people who work every day to make our communities as healthy and safe as possible. Your efforts are appreciated and valued. We care about what you do, and we care about you. Thank you.

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