John Lund, 25, died following a stabbing early on June 29. Now, the victim’s family has been told they’re not eligible for compensation from the province since Lund had a criminal record.
Lund was stabbed in the eye at a house party in the 400 block of Pritchard Avenue. He was rushed to hospital but later died.
His organs were donated to save four other lives, says his family.
Lund’s grieving mother said it’s what her son would have wanted.
“He'd go out of his way to help someone. If he had 50 cents and someone wanted it he'd give it to them,” said Rachel Mann.
In Manitoba, crime victims’ families can receive up to $5,400 for help with funeral expenses, but Lund’s family said they’ve been told they’re not eligible.
“He’s a victim. We’re victims so they should actually try to help, not just discriminate because of backgrounds,” said Rachel.
Lund’s family confirmed the 25-year-old had gang ties, but said his criminal past had nothing to do with his death, saying he was an unfortunate victim of a house party gone wrong.
The provincial government issued a statement to CTV about compensation.
“There are specific guidelines in the legislation that outline who can receive compensation. An application may be denied based on past criminal convictions of the victim,” said the province.
The province said if anyone is convicted of a serious crime in the past 10 years, they or their family won’t receive compensation and if someone is convicted of any offences in the past five years, they could potentially also be denied eligibility or be given a reduced amount. The province said decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Rachel said that despite his criminal record, her son was still a victim and a person whose life was taken by another.
Lund’s family hopes to raise money to lay the 25-year-old to rest.
The family is also holding a vigil July 4 evening, planning to meet at 7 p.m. at the corner of Pritchard and Salter, and then walk together to the place where Lund was killed.
Relatives said Lund had been trying to turn his life around before he was killed.
A 22-year-old suspect faces a charge for second-degree murder for Lund’s death.
- with a report from Caroline Barghout
