A young woman who was described as fearless and gentle was tragically murdered during a stabbing spree in North Vancouver, leaving her family devastated and grappling with the loss. The incident, which occurred on March 27, 2021, also left six others seriously injured. The identity of the victim, who was killed by Yannick Bandaogo, is protected by a publication ban.
During an emotional court hearing at the B.C. Supreme Court in New Westminster, the victim’s mother delivered a heart-wrenching victim impact statement. She spoke about her daughter’s love for Canada, her home away from home, and their family home where she grew up with her siblings, her parents, and their beloved dog. The mother expressed the profound loss they now face, as both homes are gone, and they are left merely existing without their fearless and gentle daughter.
Throughout the statement, the victim’s father stood by her mother’s side, locking eyes with Bandaogo, the killer. As their gazes met, Bandaogo lowered his head.
In May, Bandaogo pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder, five counts of attempted murder, and one count of aggravated assault for the attack that took place at the Lynn Valley public library. However, no motive has been given at this point for his actions. Bandaogo did not know any of the individuals he attacked, according to an agreed statement of facts.
Both the defence and Crown lawyers have recommended a joint sentencing of life in prison without the possibility of parole for at least 15 years on the murder charge.
During the hearing, two survivors also shared their victim impact statements, revealing how the attack has forever changed their lives. Susanne Till, a single mother of three who lost an eye in the incident, recounted the terrifying moments when she was waiting for her daughter’s dance class to end at the library. Till described the vicious attack she witnessed and how she had to escape. As a result of the stabbing, she lost her left eye and had to undergo reconstructive surgery to repair her nose.
Till mentioned the difficulty her children faced in sleeping after the attack and expressed gratitude for the extensive counseling that has helped the family cope with the traumatic experience. She also shared her loss of confidence, noting that she used to encourage her children to live boldly without fear, but now she herself is scared.
Emma Henderson, a 22-year-old honor roll student at Simon Fraser University, was also present at the library that day. In her statement, Henderson questioned what kind of monster could carry out such a violent act in a library. Bandaogo cornered her against a fence and repeatedly stabbed her in the face and hand. Henderson vividly recalls the horrific screams of agony, realizing later that they were her own. She shared how the scars on her face cause her pain every time she looks in the mirror and mentioned her ongoing struggle to return to a normal life. Henderson emphasized that while she will try to move on, she will never forget or forgive what happened.
The sentencing hearing is set to continue, with additional statements expected on Thursday and Friday.
