An unprecedented act of violence has left Haida Gwaii communities in shock and mourning following the death of a Skidegate man earlier this week.
Luke Pearson, 32, died after being struck by a vehicle in Skidegate on April 22. His death, which police immediately treated as a targeted attack, has now been ruled a homicide.
The B.C. Prosecution Service confirmed Friday that Tyson Young, 32, of Skidegate, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the case.
Daajing Giids RCMP responded to the incident around 1:17 p.m. in the 200 block of Front Street.
“From the outset of this collision, this was investigated as a targeted attack, and at no time did the Daajing Giids RCMP feel there was a risk to the greater community or its members,” said Sgt. Chris Manseau, detachment commander of the Daajing Giids RCMP.
North District Major Crime continues to lead the investigation with support from local RCMP. Officers remain on scene and in the community, and residents can expect a heightened police presence for the next several days.
Pearson’s family, who publicly identified him through a social media statement, described him as a proud uncle, loyal friend, devoted son, brother, cousin and loving partner.
“He loved exploring with his puppy, fishing, helping others, learning how to build and fix things, and spending time with his loved ones,” the family said. A member of the Juus Eagle Clan, Pearson was a respected journeyman marine mechanic who “proudly and humbly lived a peaceful and honest life.”
“His life was stolen by evil people in a senseless act with no reason, and our hearts are forever broken,” the family added.
The Council of the Haida Nation, with support from Pearson’s family and the Skidegate Band Council, also issued a statement Friday urging the community to support the ongoing investigation.
“With support of the family of Luke Pearson, we would like to reassure the people of Haida Gwaii that the family, the Council of the Haida Nation and Skidegate Band Council are all in full support of the RCMP Major Crime Unit investigation taking place,” the council said.
In the days following the incident, peaceful protests have been organized outside the residence of individuals allegedly connected to the case. Several local businesses, including grocery stores, gas stations, School District 50 and vendors at the farmers’ market, have publicly come forward to show solidarity with Pearson’s family. Many have taken action by banning individuals believed to be involved.
The Haida Gwaii Co-op announced, “Effective immediately, all those involved in Luke’s death are banned from all Haida Gwaii Co-op establishments.”
Causeway Convenience stated, “We want to acknowledge the unfathomable loss of Luke, a man who was not only a role model to our youth, but a pillar in our community, and add our voices to the call for justice.”
The Gwaalagaa Naay Corporation also issued a board resolution banning several individuals from all Gwaalagaa Naay-owned, managed or operated properties, citing the need to ensure the “safety, security and well-being of employees, tenants, stakeholders and all individuals who interact with its properties and businesses.”
The RCMP continues to ask anyone who interacted with Pearson on April 22 prior to 1 p.m., or who may have CCTV or dash camera footage, to contact investigators at 250-559-4421.
Manseau also responded to concerns raised online about the investigation’s timeline.
“All investigators are working diligently, round the clock, gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses,” he said. “While an arrest is certainly a milestone, charge approval is always the ultimate goal. It is important that we take the time we need to ensure a successful prosecution.”
Staff Sgt. Kris Clark of the B.C. RCMP earlier emphasized that a lack of public updates does not mean the investigation has stalled, but rather that police are preserving the integrity of the case.
A curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. remains in effect in Skidegate until rescinded by the Skidegate Band Council.
The investigation remains ongoing.
