Around 100 people gathered in the middle of the highway just outside Thompson March 28 to sing songs, shed tears and offer prayers for Solomon McDonald, who died there March 22.
Thompson RCMP diverted traffic on Highway 391 around the site where the 41-year-old Nelson House resident was killed six days earlier in what police believe was a hit-and-run.
While the majority of the crowd drove in from Nelson House, this group also included Thompson residents like Mayor Colleen Smook, city councillor Les Ellsworth and elder Jack Robinson.
Once the ceremony wrapped up, attendees took turns placing lit candles and McDonald’s photos next to a large white cross at the side of the road.
RCMP identified McDonald as the man killed a few hours before the vigil.
"Solomon was a father of 10, with seven children under the age of 12,” said Manitoba RCMP media relations officer Cpl. Julie Courchaine in a press release. “His children, his parents and his spouse are all grieving this tragedy. We believe someone witnessed the vehicle hitting Solomon or may have information about what happened the night of March 22, 2019. We are urging anyone with information to come forward and speak with the RCMP."
The collision that killed McDonald was reported to Thompson RCMP around 1 a.m. March 22. There was no vehicle at the scene when police arrived.
Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information about it can call Thompson RCMP at 204-677-691 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477. Secure tips can also be submitted online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.
