(Sarah Mills/980 CJME)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Hate Crime

P.A. Ukrainian community surprised by nearly fatal alleged hate crime in Victoria, B.C.

Apr 22, 2022 | 2:00 PM

Members of Prince Albert’s Ukrainian community are wrapping their heads around a possible hate crime two provinces over.

A Ukrainian pastor and his family in Victoria were the victims of an arson attack in the early morning hours on April 20. They allege gasoline was poured through the mail slot in their home before it was set on fire.

Taras Kachkowski, a prominent member of P.A.’s Ukrainian family, told paNOW he was just as surprised about the crime as he was by the potential motivation.

“That’s horrifying… like who does that, who thinks of that.”

Kachkowski has been one of the more vocal residents ever since Russia invaded Ukraine back in February.

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This had led to a few “internet trolls”, as he puts it, leaving some rather nasty messages. However, he claimed P.A.’s community has been very supportive.

This was echoed by Fr. Andrei Kachur with St. George’s Ukrainian Catholic Church.

“There’s been a lot of people wearing yellow and blue ribbons on their person and in their vehicles. The community has been very supportive.”

Moving forward, Kachkowski believes there will be attacks against Ukrainians.

Before the Victoria attack, there have been claims about other incidents across Canada. This includes in Toronto, Edmonton, and other cities.

“Who knows where and who knows when, but something will and can happen somewhere,” added Kachkowski.

Meanwhile, Victoria police are continuing to investigate the arson attack.

Reports claim they are looking into the possibility of this being hate-motivated.

A potential light-coloured, possibly white, four-door vehicle, was seen driving away shortly before the fire was set.

(Victoria Police)

They’re asking anyone with information, including surveillance footage, to call their report desk at 250 995-7654, extension 1, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow