Charlene Klyne with her husband Ralph. (submitted photo/Jeffery Klyne)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Rest In Peace

La Loche shooting victim passes away due to injuries sustained in 2016 attack

May 23, 2023 | 3:41 PM

One of the seven who were injured but survived the 2016 La Loche shooting has passed away.

Charlene Klyne died on May. 17 with her family saying it was due to complications from the injuries she sustained over seven years earlier.

Her son Jeffery told paNOW she was blinded in the attack, and it impacted her heart, breathing, and vocal cords.

“It was difficult for her to move; she required many different doctors for different areas of care… it was very difficult on her,” he said.

Charlene’s death was just as a shock to her family as the initial shooting was. Despite many health complications, she was living her best life in Saskatoon when her health took a turn for the worse.

BDO Debt Solutions

Deck the Halls Without Breaking the Bank: Tips for a Budget-Friendly Holiday

4h ago

RPCN Artist

'Felt like a movie': Chris Chipak making waves in the art world

4h ago

MMA

"The Lion" roars in New Brunswick

5h ago

“It was a big shock (when she was injured) and an even bigger shock (when she died),” Jeffery said. “We thought we would still have years with mom and suddenly that went away.”

Jeffery currently works in the education field, just like both of his parents. His mom was a teacher at the time of the shooting, while his dad was the vice-principal of the school.

Leaving the community was a tough decision for the family, but one they felt was needed. Jeffery explained his parents are still well-liked with community members always talking about them quite fondly.

“I think mom and dad would still be there if not for the shooting,” he said.

A funeral will be held in Saskatoon on June 17. Jeffery noted the event is open to the public and the family expects to see quite a few people from La Loche in attendance.

One of those will be Mayor Georgina Jolibois who was the MP for Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River when the shooting happened.

She echoed Jeffery’s comments, explaining that the community suffered a big loss when the family moved away.

“This remarkable family, when they lived in La Loche, they contributed positively to the community, and she was very helpful,” Jolibois said. “My heartfelt condolences to her family… the Village sends well wishes to the family.”

Meanwhile, since Charlene’s death was due to complications from her injuries, there are some wondering if the shooter will see one of his attempted murder charges change to a homicide charge.

Jeffery and his dad believe it should, but they don’t want to speak for the entire family.

paNOW has reached out to RCMP but have not received a comment at this time.

—

Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow