The Hulu series Under the Bridge brings to light one of Canada’s most harrowing true crime stories—the tragic case of Reena Virk. In 1997, the 14-year-old girl from Saanich, British Columbia, became the victim of a brutal and senseless act of violence that shocked the nation and left an indelible mark on her community.
Reena Virk was described as a bright and sensitive teenager navigating the challenges of adolescence. She longed for acceptance among her peers but often felt isolated due to her Indian heritage and struggles with bullying. On the evening of November 14, 1997, Reena was invited to meet a group of teenagers near the Craigflower Bridge. What she thought would be a chance to socialize quickly turned into a nightmare.
The group, consisting of seven teenagers—six girls and one boy—attacked Reena in what was later described as a frenzy of violence. She was punched, kicked, and burned with cigarettes. After the initial assault, the group began to disperse. However, two of the attackers, Kelly Ellard and Warren Glowatski, followed Reena as she attempted to leave. They dragged her to the water’s edge, where Ellard held Reena’s head underwater until she drowned.
Reena’s body was discovered eight days later, floating in the Gorge Waterway. The discovery sent shockwaves through the nation, not only because of the brutality of the crime but also because it was committed by teenagers. The case raised urgent questions about youth violence, bullying, and the failure of society to protect its most vulnerable members.
The subsequent trial garnered widespread media attention. Warren Glowatski, who was 16 at the time, was convicted of second-degree murder in 1999. Kelly Ellard, who was 15, was also convicted of second-degree murder after several trials and appeals. Her conviction was finally upheld in 2005. Ellard has since shown little remorse, although she became eligible for parole in recent years.
The other six teenagers involved in the initial attack were charged with assault and received varying sentences in juvenile court. Their involvement in the case highlighted the toxic group dynamics and peer pressure that contributed to Reena’s death.
Reena’s parents, Suman and Manjit Virk, have been profoundly affected by their daughter’s murder. Initially devastated, they channeled their grief into advocacy, working tirelessly to raise awareness about bullying and youth violence. They have spoken at schools and community events, urging young people to make compassionate choices and to stand against acts of cruelty. The Virks also established scholarships in Reena’s name, ensuring that her memory lives on in a way that fosters hope and opportunity.
The story of Reena Virk remains a poignant reminder of the consequences of unchecked bullying and the importance of fostering empathy among young people. Under the Bridge serves not only as a dramatization of these events but also as a call to action to prevent such tragedies from happening again. Reena’s life was cut short, but her legacy continues to inspire efforts to create a kinder, more understanding world.
