Many of the balloons released had personal messages inscribed on them. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Tragic anniversary

Community remembers victims of Prince Albert triple homicide

Mar 29, 2021 | 7:30 AM

One year has passed since Sandra Henry, Denis Carrier and their young grandson Bentlee, were murdered at a west side Prince Albert property.

To mark the tragic anniversary, 365 red and white balloons were released into the air Sunday afternoon, near the Prince Albert Co-Op grocery store on 15th St. E.

Friends, co-workers and family inscribed personal messages on the balloons. Many could be seen wiping away tears, as the balloons floated slowly away. A moment of silence was held just prior to the release. Several members of the Prince Albert Police Service were also in attendance, as well as six-year-old Kendrah, the lone survivor of the incident.

Kendrah helps cut the string. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

The balloons and the helium were donated by Lake Country Co Op. (Nigel/paNOW Staff)

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Sandra Henry, remembered for her infectious laugh, worked for years behind the customer service desk at the Co-Op grocery store. Her husband Denis Carrier was working at Manitoulin Transport at the time of his death, and has been remembered for his “willingness to give you the shirt off his back.” Denis also loved to decorate his home at Christmas time. Bentlee, 7, was a devoted scout and loved helping out his teachers at St. John School.

When Bentlee’s mother and grandfather spoke with paNOW last week, they explained money raised from the sale of the balloons Sunday, would go to help the Carrier family. They also expressed their gratitude to the community for all the support they have received.

Bentlee was a big fan of Iron Man, and some special balloons were made in his memory. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

The event attracted a large crowd. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW staff)

Nathaniel Carrier, the couple’s son, and father to Bentlee, faces three counts of first degree murder and one count of attempted murder.

The charges are still before the courts, and are scheduled to be spoken to at a pre-trial hearing late next month. Carrier’s lawyer has elected for the case to be tried by judge and jury at Prince Albert Court of Queen’s Bench.

A collection of flowers lies on the front step of the home where Sandra and Denis lived. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell