Criminology dept. and RCMP host public talk on Reena Virk tragedy Feb. 10

No one can describe what it’s like to lose a child to bullying – except the parents.

Manjit and Suman Virk will visit Vancouver Island University’s Nanaimo campus Feb. 10 to talk about how they turned tragedy into forgiveness and hope after the death of their 14-year-old daughter Reena Virk.

“Bullying is an issue that affects all communities,” said VIU Criminology professor Lisette Patenaude. “The VIU Criminology department and the Nanaimo RCMP are co-sponsoring the Virk’s public talk because we hope to raise awareness and encourage community dialogue about this serious issue.”

On Nov. 14, 1997, 14-year-old Reena Virk was beaten by a group of teenage girls and one male. All were between 14 and 16. She was then murdered by two of the youth: Kelly Ellard and Warren Glowatski.

Six of the teenage girls were found guilty of assault causing bodily harm. Warren Glowatski and Kelly Ellard were charged with second degree murder.

In June 1999, Warren Glowatski was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Three trials occurred between 2000 and 2006 for Kelly Ellard. In the original trial, Ellard was found guilty of 2nd degree murder. By August 2006, Ellard appealed her conviction for the fourth time and the BC Court of Appeal ordered a fourth trial.

On June 12, 2009 the Supreme Court of Canada overturned the BC Court of Appeal’s decision and reinstated Ellard’s conviction.

“Twelve years after Reena’s death, Kelly Ellard is serving time for second degree murder after being sentenced to life in prison with no parole eligibility for seven years,” said Patenaude.

The ongoing trials kept Reena’s death in the spotlight and her family searching for justice.

“The Virk’s strength and their motivation to teach us many lessons from the heartache that they’ve endured are truly inspirational,” said Patenaude. 

Manjit Virk’s new book, “Reena: A Father’s Story” ($30) and a newly released DVD entitled “The Reena Virk Story with Manjit and Suman Virk” ($40) will be available for purchase. A book signing will follow.

The Virk’s talk on Feb. 10 from 7 to 9 pm is open to the public, and takes place in the Building 310, Room 218, at VIU’s Nanaimo campus. Doors open at 6 pm.

Cathy Thomson, assistant program manager for the Nanaimo RCMP Victim Services, will be available to answer questions.

For further information, contact Lisette.Patenaude@viu.ca.