THE BC RCMP announced on Wednesday that planning for Constable Shaelyn Yang’s funeral is now underway.

The funeral will take place at 11 a.m. on November 2 at the Richmond Olympic Oval, 6111 River Road, Richmond.

A statement from the family is expected in the days to come, however, the need to provide the family time and space is important as they go through the grieving process and prepare for the funeral, the RCMP said.

Yang was fatally stabbed on October 18 in Burnaby as she was attempting to save a homeless man’s life.

The RCMP are working with a number of individuals, groups and businesses that may be directly impacted, prior to providing recommendations and directions such as traffic closures to the public. Therefore, further information, media direction and traffic restrictions will be provided closer to the date. Monitor the BC RCMP website for the most accurate information.

The RCMP said they are grateful for the significant outpouring of public support and condolences. They encourage members of the public to send an electronic message to Yang’s family to: RCMP.Condolences-Condoleances.GRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Messages of condolence will be sent to Yang’s family and to Burnaby RCMP Detachment.

Seating is limited at the venue and will be reserved for family, invited guests, designated officials and uniformed members participating in the funeral march. Alternative viewing options are being looked at and will be shared as soon as possible.

MEANWHILE, Yang’s family issued the following statement:

CONSTABLE Shaelyn Yang moved to Canada from Taiwan at a young age. She was raised and educated in the Greater Vancouver area. She was fond of the land where she grew up and was very involved in her community as it shaped her upbringing.

Shaelyn was gentle yet brave, compassionate yet courageous; and she was born with the gift of supporting and empowering others. She brought with her laughter and joy wherever she went. She loved her family and friends immensely and even though her family and friends are situated in multiple countries, she was always there for everyone near and dear to her heart. Her thoughtfulness made us feel like we were always together.

Shaelyn loved her career with the RCMP. In hindsight, she was preparing for this role her entire life. At five years old, she started training in Taekwondo and later on, she took up Kendo and Brazilian Jiujitsu. Through volunteering as an RCMP Victim Services worker, Shaelyn was inspired to become a member of the RCMP. After intense training at the RCMP Depot Academy, her dream came true and she was sworn in as an RCMP officer. Shaelyn was so proud of her uniform. She made the ultimate sacrifice to this work that she loved. This is extremely heartbreaking, she devoted her life to helping others, which is something she strived for, and we are so proud. As her family, we thank Shaelyn for giving all of herself in making this world a better place. May she rest in peace knowing she was so loved.

We would like to thank everyone for their condolences. There has been an outpouring of support from extended family, friends and the public. We hear you and we thank you for your thoughts and kind words. We have sincere gratitude to Shaelyn’s RCMP colleagues for the support and friendships formed throughout her service – a lifelong gift to her that she treasured. We would also like to thank the RCMP for their thoughtfulness, support, and considerate arrangements during this difficult time and as the Force formally honours her passing. We are sincerely grateful for the RCMP, Shaelyn’s friends and colleagues, and the general public for their support.

Lastly, as our family is going through immense grief, we will not be participating in any media interviews. This written statement will be the only public release from Shaelyn’s family.

Thank you