17-07-2025
‘That grief, we carry it every day': Breanna Broadfoot's family plans vigil; calls for end to Intimate Partner Violence
It's been a year since Breanna Broadfoot was killed. The 17-year-old girl taken too soon by her former boyfriend in a violent domestic incident on Wellesley Crescent, on Thursday July 18, 2024.
Police say the suspect stabbed Breanna and another person before being shot by officers. He later died in hospital.
Since then, her family has been fighting to raise awareness about intimate partner violence and this Friday, they're inviting the community to stand with them.
'It's going to be a difficult day, emotionally and personally. But we deal with that you know, that grief every day,' said Brenna's father Brett Broadfoot.
The Broadfoots, with support from Anova and the London Abused Women's Centre, are hosting a memorial event on Friday at Ed Blake Park.
From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., people can drop off hygiene donations, enjoy food and hear from community leaders about the urgent need to end violence against women.
The Executive Director of the London Abused Women's Center (LAWC) Jennifer Dunn says although progress is being made, more needs to be done.
'There is a lot better communication, a lot more opportunities to work together. But it's not fast enough. We need to have a coordinated community response to end violence against women. And that's the bottom line.'
Both agencies will be there to connect people with resources and remind survivors that they are not alone.
Breanna's family also wants people to know how she gave. Even in death, her organ donations saved five lives.
'Breanna always wanted to help people… She's just a real giver and full of life, and a huge heart,' said Brett. 'She was a hero,' echoed her mother, Jessica.
