Durham is in mourning with flags at half-mast and vigils across towns and cities as reports emerge of its residents killed in the Ukraine International Airlines air crash in Iran.
Flags at Oshawa facilities were lowered yesterday and will remain at half-mast until sunset on Friday, January 10 in memory of the victims of the plane crash.
Oshawa has extended condolences to the family, friends and Ontario Tech University community who are mourning the passing of Dr. Razgar Rahimi, a faculty member and alumni at the university who was one of the victims of the plane crash.
Dr. Rahimi and members of his family were among the 63 Canadians who lost their lives in the UIA Flight 752 plane crash that occurred on Wednesday, January 8. All 176 passengers lost their lives.
“We are deeply saddened by the heartbreaking news and our thoughts are with all those who have friends and family who lost their lives in this tragic plane crash. On behalf of City Council and the City of Oshawa, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and students of Dr. Rahimi and to the Ontario Tech University community,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter.
Ontario Tech University yesterday held a public vigil in memory of Dr. Razgar Rahimi, his family and the victims of the plane crash at Polonsky Commons.
Town of Ajax has announced that it will be holding a vigil for the victims of the Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 on January 13.
The City of Pickering lowered its flags at city facilities to recognize the 63 Canadians and all who lost their lives. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this terrible tragedy and families/loved ones who are coping with their loss,” said a statement.
Clarington‘s flags have been lowered to half-mast in memory of the 63 Canadians and those who lost their lives in the Ukrainian plane crash in Iran. “Our thoughts are with everyone who is impacted by this tragedy,” said a statement.
Canada asks Iran for access
Meanwhile, François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mohammad Javad Zarif, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, had a phone call last night.
The two exchanged condolences for the victims of the crash of Ukraine International Airlines flight 752 from both their countries.
Minister Champagne stressed the need for Canadian officials to be quickly granted access to Iran to provide consular services, help with identification of the deceased and take part in the investigation of the crash.
Minister Champagne said that Canada and Canadians have many questions which will need to be answered.
Minister Champagne also condemned Iranian strikes targeting bases in Iraq where Coalition forces, including Canadians, are stationed.
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Stop calling it a “crash”!! THE PLANE WAS SHOT DOWN!!