Fric family issues statement regarding death Elana Fric-Shamji

CTV Toronto: Fric-Shamji's neighbour speaks up Dr. Allyson Koffman speaks up about her neighbour, Dr. Elana Fric-Shamji, as the murder investigation continues. Tracy Tong reports.

The family of a slain doctor who grew up in Windsor Essex has released a statement.

Police believe Dr. Elana Fric-Shamji was murdered in her home in Toronto before her body was found by a roadway in Vaughan.

Mohammed Shamji, Elana’s husband, is now charged with first-degree murder.

The Fric family asked the Ontario Medical Association to issue the following statement on their behalf:

“The family of Dr. Elana Fric would like to express their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers at this difficult time.

We deeply appreciate the support that Elana's children and we as a family have received – it has been a kindness for which we are very thankful.

We would also like to express thanks to the many friends, neighbours and colleagues who have shared their memories of Elana as a wonderful person, mother, and physician. We miss her greatly and these memories mean a great deal to all of us today and every day.

We would further like to thank:

The police at 32 Division for their hard work, compassion and professionalism,

The physicians and staff at the Scarborough and Rouge Hospital for their kind words and financial support,

The entire community at the children's school; teachers, children, parents and staff,

The Children's Aid Society for their work to help the children as they attempt to cope with the tragic loss of their mother,

The Ontario Medical Association, including Elana's colleagues in District 11 where she worked, for their support, arranging emergency financial assistance and establishing trusts for Elana's three young children.

Finally we'd like to send thanks to all those who have honoured Elana's memory by donating to:

The Shelter Movers of Toronto: This charity provides safe, respectful moving services at no cost to persons fleeing abusive households.

Canadian Centre for Immigrant and Refugee Health Care: Elana was passionate about global health and equitable care for vulnerable populations, including women and refugees. 

We continue to ask for privacy as we work through this difficult time and thank you for your continued respect of this request.”