Table of Contents
Heartbreaking loss in Horseshoe Bay
In a devastating incident that has shaken the community of Horseshoe Bay, a young boy named Leonardo was tragically killed at a bus stop. The accident occurred on May 28, when Leonardo, his mother Silvana de Oliveira Schramm, and a family friend were returning from a day trip to Bowen Island.
Witnesses reported that a TransLink bus jumped the curb, striking several people, including the family. This heartbreaking event has left a profound impact on those who knew the family and the wider community.
A family’s dream shattered
Silvana and her partner, Cilneu Machado, had longed for a child, and their dream came true with the birth of Leonardo in 2021.
Described by Machado as their “one per cent miracle baby,” Leonardo was the center of their world. The couple had moved to Canada from Brazil in 2014, and they cherished their time together as a family. They loved to travel, often visiting family in Brazil, creating memories that now feel bittersweet in light of this tragedy.
Community support and resilience
As the family grapples with this unimaginable loss, the community has rallied around them. Theresa Morrison, the owner of AJ’s Brooklyn Pizza Joint where Machado works, has organized a GoFundMe campaign to support the family during this difficult time.
“He’s obviously not doing well,” Morrison shared, referring to Machado’s emotional state. “Silvana’s still quite intensive right now, so we’re just praying for her over the next couple of days especially.” The community’s response highlights the deep connections that exist in Horseshoe Bay, as many residents feel the weight of this tragedy.
Finding strength in faith and forgiveness
In the wake of this tragedy, Machado has shown remarkable strength and compassion. Despite his own grief, he has expressed concern for the bus driver and witnesses of the accident, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and understanding that accidents happen.
“What he said is with tragedies, there’s opportunities to learn and teach and support,” Morrison noted. This perspective reflects a deep faith and resilience that is inspiring to those around him, as the community comes together to support the family in their time of need.
A call for awareness and safety
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in our communities. As families navigate their daily lives, the need for vigilance around public transportation and pedestrian safety cannot be overstated. The loss of a young life is a tragedy that resonates deeply, prompting discussions about how to prevent such incidents in the future. The community’s response to this tragedy underscores the collective grief felt by many, as they come together to honor Leonardo’s memory and support his family.
