Trent Mourns the Loss of Trent Student Brett Michael LeBlanc
The Trent University community mourns the loss of Trent student Brett Michael LeBlanc.
Brett was reported missing Friday, November 20, 2020 and an update was shared by Peterborough Police (below) the afternoon of November 23.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Brett’s death,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “The entire Trent community had pulled together in thought and action in the hopes that he would be found safe. Our deepest sympathies are with Brett’s family and friends. We will be guided by the family around commemoration, and I urge anyone who needs support to reach out to the resources we have available.”
More information about a memorial service will be shared when details are available. The University wishes to thank the Peterborough Police and all the students, faculty and staff who reached out to offer help and support over the weekend. In honour of Brett, the flag atop Bata Library has been lowered to half-mast.
Below is an excerpt from his obituary notice:
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow we announce the tragic passing of our son Brett. Son of Mike and Cheryl LeBlanc, step-brother of Carrie Chappell, uncle to Nikisha Chappell/McCoy Walker and great-uncle to Journey Walker. Dear nephew of Darlene LeBlanc, Rick and Cindy LeBlanc, Jon Beers and cousin of Tyler LeBlanc. Brett will be remembered by many family members from Cobourg to New Brunswick and an incredible amount of friends and teammates. We would like to thank the many family friends and complete strangers who took part in his search. Special thanks to Lucas Charron for all his work organizing the students who took part. Thank you to Brett's teachers from all grade levels and a special thanks to Brett's Sledge Hockey teammates, Kris, Mike, Jaimie, Christian, Robbie, Jody and Shannon, but most of all a special thanks to Andy Labrosse, Brett's best friend. Thank you for your endless help, compassion and patience, your love for our family will never be forgotten. We would like to thank the Peterborough Police, OPP and Trent University Security. Brett you will be forever embedded in all our hearts. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Condolences received at www.MacCoubrey.com.
We understand that this news will be challenging for many in the Trent community. Counselling and supports for students and employees are available:
- For Students:
- Counselling Services
- Peterborough: 705-748-1386 or counselling@trentu.ca
- Durham: durhamcounselling@trentu.ca
- Multi-faith Network through Trent Spiritual Affairs: volunteer chaplains and community liaisons from various faith traditions in the community
- Counselling Services
- For staff and faculty:
In addition to these services at Trent University, many other support networks are available within our campus communities.
In Peterborough, immediate crisis support is available through:
- 4 Counties Crisis (1-866-995-9933)
- Crisis Services Canada (1-833-456-4566)
- The emergency department at Peterborough Regional Hospital
For immediate crisis support in Durham please contact:
- Ontario Shores Crisis Line: (1-800-263-2679)
- Crisis Services Canada (1-833-456-4566)
- The emergency department at your nearest hospital
Please see the statement from Peterborough Police below
Missing Person Update
As a result of information received, the Peterborough Police with the assistance of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) conducted a search of the Otonabee River on November 23, 2020.