Teary-eyed family members gathered at the Stadium LRT station Monday afternoon, visiting the spot where 23-year-old Heather Rae Thurier was shot dead Friday night.

The victim's sister, Nicole Gladue, was joined by several other family members who brought with them pictures and memories of Thurier. Gladue lit a candle and then made a vow to her dead sister.

"I promise you I will do my best to get your kids and take care of them," said Gladue.

Thurier, a mother of two, was shot Friday night at the Stadium LRT station. The victim's brother, who was with her at the time of her death, says she asked a young man for a cigarette before he pulled out a long-barreled weapon and shot her.  The suspect fled on foot immediately after.

"I have anger for him because he stole my niece's and my nephew's mommy," said Gladue.

When asked whether her sister's death may have been gang related, Gladue said she wouldn't talk about the link because of fears for her family's safety.

"There [are] other things that could have led up to this, it could have been pre-meditated, but then again it could have been a very random crime," Gladue said.

Police have not released any details about possible gang connections, or whether the victim and suspect were known to each other. However, police believe Thurier and the suspect were having some sort of discussion, when things escalated moments before her death.

Police say the suspect allegedly pulled out a long-barreled weapon, possibly a sawed-off shotgun, and shot Thurier. She was left with serious trauma to her head and was pronounced dead a short time later.

Loved ones have been passing along with condolences to Thurier family over Facebook. Many shocked and disgusted by the senseless murder.

Lonnie Gabriel Gladue-Willms, who identifies herself as an aunt writes, "May you rest in peace."

Another friend named Ta Ok writes, "I love you Heather, see you on the flip-side someday. Say hi to my sister for me."

Police continue to search for Thurier's killer.

Investigators have seized surveillance footage from the Stadium LRT station's security cameras and have released the following description of the suspect.

  • Male
  • Possibly aboriginal
  • 16 to 21 years old
  • 5'10" tall
  • Approximately 160 lbs.

Anyone with information about the suspect's whereabouts is asked to call police at 780-423-4567 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

The death marks Edmonton's third homicide of the week and the seventh this year.