Woman charged in teen death
Shannon Raymond.
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Updated: October 06, 2009 3:43 PM
A 40-year-old woman has been charged in connection with the sudden death of a Maple Ridge teenager last summer.
Ridge Meadows RCMP found the lifeless body of 16-year-old Shannon Raymond at 6 a.m. on July 26, 2008. Police won’t confirm a cause of death, but said the woman charged, Victoria Turley, was at the house where a party took place and Raymond was found.
“Shannon was in the care of the accused and was in medical distress and that issue was not addressed,” RCMP Supt. Dave Walsh said during a media conference Friday.
The former Maple Ridge resident was arrested Thursday and charged with failure to provide the necessities of life, a rarely used section of the criminal code. Her first court appearance is on Oct. 15.
Shannon’s mother Julie and her sister Danielle attended the media conference. Another three dozen friends and family showed up, but were asked by police to leave the room.
Julie said she doesn’t know the woman charged, but knew of the family. She plans on attending all her court appearances.
“I want to see her punished to the full extent,” Julie said.
“It is the next stage in the grieving process.”
Shannon was a student at Westview secondary and an avid soccer player. Talking through tears, Julie described her daughter as a confident, vibrant, loving girl who had a zest for life.
“Nothing is so strong as gentleness and nothing is so gentle as true strength. Shannon had it all,” she said.
“Her infectious laugh and effervescence could power a small town. She was nicknamed Dr. Phyllis because of her ability to exhibit compassion, understanding and a thoughtful attitude with those around her. Her ability to give was neverending.”
• The Raymonds have set up a bursary fund in Shannon’s name for students at Westview secondary. Anyone can donate to the fund, which is established through TD Canada Trust. The account number is 9103 6288036.
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