Community Gathers to Remember Joshua Tarnue: Seeking Answers in Tragic Shooting

• damiadeniyi
• August 21, 2023
• News
• 0 Comments

In a heartfelt gathering this past Sunday, Kitchener’s community came together to remember Joshua Tarnue, an 18-year-old whose life was tragically taken in a downtown shooting on August 13th. Friends and family, enveloped in sorrow, assembled at the Chandler Mowat Community Centre to honor Joshua’s memory and reflect on the impact he had on their lives.

Evelyn Woart, Joshua’s mother, shared poignant memories of her son—a kind-hearted young man who treated others with respect and had a quiet nature. She recalled Joshua’s reluctance to engage in conflict, highlighting his preference for peaceful interactions.

The circumstances surrounding Joshua’s untimely passing continue to puzzle those close to him. Gapita Sarplah Massaquoi, a spokesperson for the Liberian community within the Waterloo region, expressed the community’s collective astonishment at the tragic event. Joshua’s unexpected departure has left many grappling with a sense of disbelief.

Evelyn Woart disclosed that Joshua was born in Liberia, a country in West Africa, and had been sponsored to come to Canada in 2019. She lovingly described his affinity for people and his willingness to go out of his way to make others happy.

In this time of grief, the local Liberian community has provided indispensable support to Evelyn Woart, helping her navigate through the difficult days following her son’s passing. Recognizing the strength of community bonds, Woart advocates for justice not only for Joshua but for all families affected by such tragedies.

The Waterloo regional police have released a photo of a suspect linked to the shooting, appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the individual. Woart, desperate for answers, implores anyone with information to come forward and shed light on the circumstances surrounding her son’s death.

The incident has also brought to the forefront concerns about gun violence within the community. Gapita Sarplah Massaquoi emphasized the gravity of using firearms responsibly, underscoring the severe consequences that result from their misuse.

The tragedy strikes an even deeper chord for those close to Joshua, particularly given their experiences in war-torn Liberia. The familiarity with the devastation caused by firearms underscores the urgency to address the issue of gun violence responsibly.

Joshua’s legacy is one of giving and kindness. Those who knew him fondly remembered his love for cooking and his desire to see others happy. This affectionate spirit was reflected in the elaborate spread of food during the vigil, capturing the essence of Joshua’s character.

Determined to honor her son’s memory, Evelyn Woart plans to launch a campaign that mirrors Joshua’s generous nature. This initiative aims to provide nourishment for underprivileged youth, extending the impact of Joshua’s compassion far beyond his community.

For those who wish to support Joshua’s family, a GoFundMe page has been established to aid with funeral expenses.