Minister, Principal bewildered at tragedy

A visibly saddened parliamentary representative Montgomery Daniel expressed sadness and shock at the tragedy that took place in his constituency.{{more}}

Daniel, who was at the scene of Wednesday’s tragedy, said that the upbringing of Tom “Dick” Sutherland, 33, of Sandy Bay did not reflect what happened on Big Sand Beach that morning.

Daniel said that he knew Sutherland as a youngster, he knew his parents, and the children who were shot as well as their mother.



He expressed condolences to Wandalyn Shallow, and empathised with her during her time of grief.

When Daniel left the scene of the tragedy, he traveled to the nearby school where nine-year-old Kimberly and Rosanna, 6, were taken from by their father hours earlier.

A special assembly had been scheduled to take place at the school yesterday, involving teachers, parents, students and education officials.

Principal of the school Lionel Thomas(below right) shared the views of the minister, in expressing shock and sadness on the tragedy that occurred.



He also stated that Sutherland portrayed himself as an exemplary father, who appeared to care about the welfare of his children.

He said that he hoped to use the death of “Poor Bebe” in a positive way, hoping her passing would bring a change to the community as well as the nation.

Kimberly’s grade two teacher, who was heartbroken over the situation described Kimberly as a good student who was quiet and always did her work.

She recalled that on many occasions, she would see the girls with their father, who would visit and hug and kiss them.

The school was closed for the day following the tragedy.