Family, friends and neighbours of Marie Gabriel, a Gambian mum of two who was allegedly killed by her abusive partner, are determined to honour her life with a peaceful vigil. 

The community of Ottawa in Canada, have organised a candlelight vigil at 1485 Heatherington Road at 6pm on Friday 8 April. 

The body of Marie was found at her town house in 1485 Heatherington Road, in the suburbs of Ottawa on Monday. 

Canadian police say they have charged a 40-year-old man, believed to be her partner, with second-degree murder in the death of the 24-year-old Gambian mum of two. 

Jean Fenelon appeared briefly in court on Thursday (31 March) from the Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre, reports local media. 

Marie, who grew up in Kololi, in Gambia, left behind two young children, a baby and a toddler. 

The Gabriel family has setup a gofundme page to cover Marie’s funeral cost. 

A family statement posted on the gofundme page said: “Our family did not plan or expect to need to arrange a funeral for such a beautiful young soul. 

“Marie had loved ones all around the world but with this unfortunate series of events many are struggling to attend the funeral as they’re required to travel to Ottawa in order to say goodbye to Marie. 

“We ask to find it in your heart to donate what you can to help cover some expenses for the funeral and also save what’s left of the funds for her children. 

“Marie should not just be another known for her story of domestic violence. But we hope that her story helps anyone in a toxic, abusive relationship should seek help before its to late. 

“Marie will be remembered for how kind, smart, funny, lively and the best mother to her babies. She wanted to give the world  even if it meant she had to build it herself which was ripped away not only from her but from them.”

Please consider donating to Marie’s Gofundme page here: https://gofund.me/ef2e8250