St. Albert mourns death of teenager

Community members are remembering a St. Albert teenager who died last week after being attacked in north Edmonton as an endearing youngster surrounded by many friends.

The Lorne Akins and Hillgrove School communities are “devastated” following the death of Grade 9 student Broden Radomske, according to St. Albert Public School communications manager Paula Power. Radomske attended Lorne Akins but was previously a student at Hillgrove.

“It's really hard for children to imagine that one of their peers could pass away,” she said.

Power learned from staff at both schools that Radomske had a great group of friends and loved playing hockey and basketball.

Radomske was well-liked by students and staff, she said.

“One of the assistant principals told me he had this sparkle in his eye,” she said. “He was just that kind of engaging young man that people enjoy being around. He had a great sense of humor and a great group of friends, and I think he will be missed for a long time.

“My best friend and closest for 15 years, I can't believe he was taken,” Radomske's friend Seth Mathisen said on Facebook. “My family and his family are very grieving. »

“We are deeply saddened to lose a member of our hockey community this week,” the St. Albert Minor Hockey Association said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. “Broden will forever be remembered by his coaches, his teammates and the entire hockey community. »

Man accused of death

Edmonton police have charged Keith James Landry, 40, with second-degree murder in Radomske's death.

Radomske was attacked last Tuesday evening near 137th Avenue and 184th Street in Edmonton.

He was walking in the area with his mother and his pit bull at the time of the attack. She told the Edmonton Journal she and her son knew the passing attacker and believed the attack was triggered by a mental health issue.

Police and paramedics attempted to save Radomske's life, but the 15-year-old died instantly.

The Edmonton medical examiner confirmed Friday that Radomske died from a stab wound.

On Monday, Landry appeared by video in Edmonton Mental Health Court. Justice Jody Moher confirmed that a psychiatrist at the Edmonton Remand Center assessed Landry's mental state and found him fit to stand trial.

“This is a tragic loss that has affected the entire community, and our thoughts are with the family, friends, classmates and all those who have been affected by the senseless death of a young,” said EPS Homicide Staff Sergeant Colin Leathem. a press release last Friday. “We want to reassure the community that the suspect has been apprehended and there is no risk to public safety.”

GoFundMe raises over $20,000

A GoFundMe campaign created to support Radomske's family raised $10,605 in less than 24 hours.

The campaign's fundraising goal was initially set at $10,000, but was adjusted to $15,000.

At press time, $20,210 had been raised through the platform and 264 donors had contributed.

“As a community of parents, we started this fundraiser to help support Broden Radomske's grandmother and family during this incredibly difficult time,” campaign organizers wrote. “We know we can't ease their pain, but we hope we can help ease some of the financial burden as they try to absorb this enormous loss.”

The campaign is still accepting donations.

Schools activate crisis response

St. Albert Public Schools activated its Mental Health Crisis Response Team at Lorne Akins High School and Hillgrove School on Wednesday.

Mental health professionals are available to any student or staff member at either school.

“It’s just about making kids aware of what’s going on and then helping them understand that whatever they’re feeling, it’s okay,” Power said. “They’re going to feel all kinds of things, and there’s help to get through them.”

School staff will contact students who may be struggling but have not come forward to speak with a counselor. Additional support from mental health professionals will be available at both schools for as long as needed, Powers said.

Classes in schools have not been interrupted, but students can leave classes to speak with a counselor.

Death unrelated to a previous incident

St. Albert RCMP say a man who was making threats near where Radomske was attacked has no connection to Radomske's death.

Last Monday, a day before the Radomske attack, St. Albert RCMP responded to a call at 137th Avenue and 184th Street. A man was throwing trash and rocks at the caller's vehicle.

“When the victim confronted the suspect, the suspect threatened him with a knife,” said Cpl. Troy Savinkoff in an email. “The suspect then left the scene before police arrived. The suspect did not leave his vehicle during this altercation.

RCMP said they have identified a suspect in this case and do not believe the man is in any way connected to the “recent homicide that took place.” [the Edmonton Police Service] currently under investigation.