RICHMOND HILL — Residents, families, and local officials gathered today in Richmond Hill for a solemn memorial marking the anniversary of the downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752, which was shot down shortly after departing Tehran, killing all 176 people on board.
The ceremony brought together members of the Iranian Canadian community, relatives of the victims, and supporters who came to remember those lost and to reaffirm calls for justice and accountability. Candles were lit and moments of silence were observed as names and stories of the victims were reflected upon.
Mayor David West attended the memorial alongside members of city council and other officials. In messages shared publicly, the mayor expressed solidarity with the families, noting that the tragedy continues to deeply affect Richmond Hill, home to a significant number of those who lost loved ones in the crash. He emphasized the city’s ongoing commitment to remembrance and to standing with families as they seek truth and justice.
Several councillors and community leaders echoed those sentiments, describing the event as both a moment of mourning and a reminder of the lasting impact of the tragedy on the city. Attendees spoke of grief that has not faded with time and of the importance of keeping public attention on the victims and their families.
Richmond Hill has been closely connected to the Flight PS752 tragedy, with many victims having lived, studied, or worked in the community. Plans for a permanent memorial in the city have been discussed in recent years as a way to ensure the victims are never forgotten.
As the ceremony concluded, participants stressed that remembrance must go hand in hand with continued advocacy. While years have passed since the crash, families say their pursuit of accountability remains ongoing, and gatherings like today’s serve as a powerful reminder that the lives lost will always be remembered.