Residents gather at Delta Park to honour brave pup
Bronwyn van der Spuy, who organised the memorial event said Lucy represents the spirit of our community.
In a heartfelt tribute to a fallen hero, over 40 residents of Randburg came together at Delta Park to honour Lucy, the courageous pup who lost her life while trying to protect her owner during a tragic shooting incident on February 24.
Among those in attendance were the family members of Lucy’s owner, who was also shot during the ordeal. The victim’s father shared his gratitude for the outpouring of support. “My son is starting to heal well physically, but mentally will take quite a bit longer.”
Speaking about the overwhelming support from the community, he said, “The residents have been fantastic. What they want to do for Delta is commendable, and this evening is a wonderful thing to do.”
Bronwyn van der Spuy, a resident of Blairgowrie who organised the memorial event, shared the inspiration behind the initiative. “When I heard about Lucy’s bravery and sacrifice, I was deeply moved. I knew I had to do something to commemorate her. My neighbour and friend, Dayle Raaff, suggested creating a plaque in Lucy’s honour, and I took on the task.”
Van der Spuy recounted the overwhelming support from the community in funding the granite plaque. “I reached out to our community for donations, and the response was incredible. We raised enough for two plaques—one to be placed in the park and another for Lucy’s dad,’ she explained.
“It’s a testament to the compassion and unity of our neighbourhood.”
The memorial event served not only to honour Lucy’s bravery but also to strengthen community bonds and reclaim Delta Park as a safe space. “Since the incident, our community has rallied together to support the victim and his family. This event is about honouring Lucy’s memory and reaffirming our commitment to making Delta Park a cleaner, safer environment for everyone.”
Reflecting on the significance of the plaque, Van der Spuy emphasised Lucy’s role as a guardian of Delta Park. “I may not have known Lucy or her dad personally, but I felt compelled to commemorate her bravery. Lucy represents the spirit of our community, and I’m grateful to have been a part of making this tribute possible.”
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