At least five University of Windsor students and researchers are believed to be among those killed by a plane crash in Iran.
A statement issued by the University of Windsor says that five names on Ukrainian International Airlines’ Flight PS752 passenger list are members of the University of Windsor student and research community.
“The entire University of Windsor is heartbroken by this news and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of everyone impacted by this terrible tragedy,” said President Robert Gordon. “At this very difficult time, we will support each other as a university family and will provide counselling and additional support services to anyone on campus in need.”
Jeremiah Bowers, president of the U of W Student Alliance, also issued a statement surrounding the deaths.
"We know that among them were University of Windsor students," said Bowers. "We await official confirmation of the exact number of passengers as the university continues to identify students through the passenger manifest. We are deeply saddened from this tragedy and stand in solidarity with the families and loved ones of those on board."
A total of 176 people, including 63 Canadians, died Wednesday morning when a Ukrainian International Airlines Boeing 737 crashed moments after takeoff from the airport in Tehran, the Iranian capital. According to the BBC, Iran's Red Crescent said they had no chance of finding survivors.
The crash also killed four students at Western University in London. The news was confirmed in a statement by university president Alan Shephard, but the names of the deceased were not released.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens took to Twitter Wednesday afternoon to express condolences for those lost and ordered red and white lights to be used at City Hall to remember the victims.
https://twitter.com/drewdilkens/status/1215026974294499329
Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk also tweeted out sympathy.
https://twitter.com/Irek_K/status/1215042114201038848
The Catholic Diocese of London put out a statement mourning the victims with Ontario connections.
“The Diocese of London and Catholic community of southwestern Ontario are deeply saddened to learn of all those who lost their lives in the crash of Ukrainian Airlines Flight PS752 in Iran last night. We are especially thinking of, and praying for, the four Western students and five Windsorites who died, and their families. May they, and all those who died in this tragic crash, rest in peace.”