Police in Saanich, British Columbia criminalized locals almost a week after six police officers were injured and two twin bank robbers were injured in a gun battle on Saturday. Announced that he is about to return to the scene. death.
But for witnesses of the deadly violence last Tuesday, the trauma of the incident is protracted.
"The bullet was in Squeaky's laundromat, so it was very scary ... very close," said Edward Park, the owner of the laundromat dealing with the banks involved. Said.
On Saturday, 22-year-old twin brothers identified as Matthew and Isaac Auktellony in Duncan were killed outside a branch of the Bank of Montreal in Saanich. Six officers were shot.
When the shot rang, Park and his employees fell to the floor in search of a cover. Police later revealed that some blankets found a bullet just above the hiding place.
"We were very lucky," he said. Since then, he has resumed activities and is focused on serving customers.
"Maybe I'm a little weird ... But I have to go back to business," he said in an interview Thursday . "I think I can overcome some kind of horrific trauma. That's what I'm thinking."
The effects of witnessing a violent incident can last long after the police tape is removed.
Some develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — flashbacks, nightmares and intrusive memories, panic or emotional numbness, emotional control Problems, and conditions that may include loss of self-esteem or self-esteem, says the Ministry of Justice of B.C.
"Being a victim of crime is a traumatic experience that can cause physical, emotional, and psychological reactions that you do not understand," the state {30. } The Victims Websitestates. "It's important to know that everyone is experiencing the effects of crime in different ways."
'It will probably be repeated over and over again in their minds'
Saanich Police Chief Const. Dean Duthie says the day was a pain for everyone, including witnesses, police officers, and bank staff. He thanked his neighbors and businesses for their "understanding" in the turmoil of their lives.
"It will be repeated in their hearts over and over again," Duthie told reporters. "Know all customers and staff that Saanich police are thinking of you, and hope you have support."
Duthie saysB.C.'s Police Victim Service stated that it is available in Saanich. This program supports crime witnesses or victims. There is also a confidential phone and text service VictimLinkBC.
'It's like sadness. Go through the entire stage.
Shelli Fryer was a customer of held hostage at the Bank of Montreal. Her voice was emotionally cracked . She then remembered the police entering the bank and apologized for the trials she and more than 12 others had just endured.
"Did these officers ... arm the six injured brothers and hit a line of fire to save us?" She said in an interview Wednesday.
A few days later, she says her mood is still "around".
59-year-old said he had sleep problems. On Canada Day, she was still awake at 2:54 am.
She said her supportive message has been flowing since Tuesday, providing some of her comfort she was looking for and praising her courage during her trials. rice field.
"There is so much love I get from all these strangers," she said.
The Flyer has been mentally replaying the Tuesday morning event ever since.
She said the trauma of being held hostage is riding the waves. She spoke victim service and and was told that it would take time to process what she experienced.
She compared itpsychologists saynot everyone handles the loss in the same way or order, but "Some people see it as the stage of sadness.
"I'm back, she said," It's like sadness. You go through all the stages, right?
"Sometimes you're in the final stages. It may not reach. "
