Hundreds of people came out to an emotional and moving vigil tonight for a young gay man, Christopher Skinner who was first viciously beaten, then run over with an SUV on Adelaide Street in downtown Toronto last Saturday, October 18. Christopher was making his way home around three a.m. from celebrating his sisters birthday at a downtown nightclub.
In a moving tribute, we heard about Christopher's passionate love of life and his fellow man. Christopher was described as someone who was very outgoing and always making new friends.
Observing a moment of silence, the crowd raised their candles and looked to the sky in a show of solidarity honoring the memory of Christopher.
Many in attendance, including myself, did not know Christopher, but felt it was important to show support for his family and friends. And to show that we are not afraid, and we will not let Christopher be forgotten.
Observers on the street applauded as we walked from the corner of Church and Wellesley in the heart of Toronto's gay village south to Adelaide and Victoria streets where Chris was savagely beaten and run over. A haunting rendition of Amazing Grace was sung by some in the crowd, as marchers signed the banner bearing Christopher's name that had led the vigil to the downtown corner.
If you have any information about the murder of Christopher Skinner, pleasce contact Detective Stacy Gallant at 416−808−7410 and Detective Doug Dunstan at 416−808−7406, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416−222−TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637).
