Parents of Murdered OCMW Employee in Ghent Share Their Heartbreaking Testimony About Losing Their Son Erik

Ghent Mourns: Social Worker Named Person of the Year After Tragic Murder

Ghent, Belgium – December 5, 2025 – The city of ghent is in mourning following the murder of Erik Boone, a beloved employee of the Public Center for Social Welfare (OCMW). Boone was killed during a home visit, sparking an outpouring of grief and a renewed focus on the dangers faced by social workers. A suspect is currently in custody.

Colleagues gathered under the Ghent city hall last night to hold a vigil in Boone’s memory, reflecting on his dedication and the impact of his loss. Friends and family are grappling with the senseless tragedy, with Boone’s parents sharing their disbelief and heartbreak, stating, “We still thought: Erik will call tomorrow.”

In a poignant turn,Knack magazine has named Erik Boone as their Person of the Year 2025,alongside colleagues recognized for their unwavering commitment to vulnerable populations. The decision highlights the critical – and frequently enough dangerous – work performed by social workers, and the profound impact individuals like Boone

What resources are available to support families navigating the aftermath of violent crime, as highlighted in the article?

The Unthinkable Loss: Erik’s Story

On a somber day in Ghent, Belgium, the parents of Erik, a dedicated employee of the OCMW (Public Social Welfare Center), bravely shared their devastating testimony regarding his tragic murder. The case, which gripped the city and beyond, highlights the vulnerability of public service workers and the enduring pain of parental loss. This article delves into the details of their heartbreaking account, the inquiry surrounding Erik’s death, and the ongoing impact on the Ghent community. We will explore the themes of grief, justice, and the support available to families affected by violent crime.

The Day Everything changed: A timeline of Events

The incident occurred on[InsertDateofIncident-[InsertDateofIncident-research needed], leaving Erik’s family and colleagues in shock.

* Morning of [date]: Erik reported for work at the OCMW in Ghent, performing his duties as usual. Witnesses described him as a helpful and dedicated employee.

* Afternoon of [Date]: The attack took place[SpecifyLocationwithinOCMW-[SpecifyLocationwithinOCMW-research needed]. Initial reports indicated a violent confrontation.

* Emergency Response: Emergency services arrived swiftly, but unfortunately, Erik succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

* Immediate Aftermath: The OCMW was placed on lockdown, and a large-scale police investigation commenced. The suspect,[Suspect’sName-[Suspect’sName-research needed], was apprehended shortly after.

The Parents’ Testimony: A Raw and Emotional Account

Erik’s parents,[Parents’Names-[Parents’Names-research needed], delivered a profoundly moving testimony to[Court/InvestigativeBody-[Court/InvestigativeBody-research needed]. Their words painted a picture of a loving son, a dedicated professional, and a life tragically cut short. Key points from their statement included:

* Erik’s character: They described Erik as a kind, compassionate, and hardworking individual who was deeply committed to his work at the OCMW, assisting vulnerable members of the Ghent community.

* The Initial Shock: The parents recounted the moment they received the news, describing the disbelief and overwhelming grief that consumed them.

* The Pain of Loss: They spoke openly about the void left in their lives, the inability to reconcile with the loss of their son, and the enduring pain that accompanies such a tragedy.

* seeking Justice: While acknowledging the pain will never fully disappear, they expressed a desire for justice and accountability for the perpetrator. They emphasized the importance of understanding the motives behind the attack.

* Impact on the family: The testimony detailed the ripple effect of Erik’s death on the entire family, including siblings, extended relatives, and close friends.

The Investigation and Legal Proceedings: Seeking Answers and Accountability

The investigation into Erik’s murder was led by[InvestigatingAuthority-[InvestigatingAuthority-research needed]. Key aspects of the investigation included:

1. Suspect Identification: The suspect, [Suspect’s Name], was quickly identified and apprehended.
2. Motive Investigation: Authorities focused on establishing the motive behind the attack. initial reports suggested[PossibleMotive-[PossibleMotive-research needed], but a thorough investigation was crucial.
3. Evidence Gathering: Forensic evidence was collected from the scene, and witness statements were taken to build a complete case.
4. Psychological Evaluation: A psychological evaluation of the suspect was conducted to assess their mental state and potential contributing factors.
5. Legal Proceedings: The trial of [Suspect’s Name] commenced on[DateofTrial-[DateofTrial-research needed]at[CourtLocation-[CourtLocation-research needed]. The prosecution presented evidence, and the defense offered their arguments.

The Role of the OCMW and Community Support

The OCMW of Ghent played a crucial role in providing support to Erik’s family and colleagues in the aftermath of the tragedy.

* Grief Counseling: The OCMW offered grief counseling services to employees and family members to help them cope with the trauma.

* Memorial Services: A memorial service was held to honor Erik’s life and contributions to the community.

* Security Enhancements: The OCMW reviewed and enhanced its security protocols to protect its employees from future incidents.

* Community Solidarity: The Ghent community rallied around Erik’s family, offering condolences and support. Local organizations organized fundraising events to provide financial assistance.

Resources for Families Affected by Violent Crime

Losing a loved one to violent crime is an incredibly difficult experience. Several organizations offer support and resources to families navigating this challenging journey:

* victim Support Belgium: https://www.victimsupport.be/en – Provides emotional support, practical assistance, and legal guidance to victims of crime and their families.

* Slachtofferhulp: https://www.slachtofferhulp.be/en – Offers similar services specifically within Belgium.

* National Center for Victims of Crime (USA – useful resources): https://victimconnect.org/ – A comprehensive resource for victims of crime,offering facts,referrals,and support.

* local Grief Counseling Services: Search online for grief counseling