CBC Podcast Unveils Megan Gallagher’s Life and Tragic Murder
Brian Gallagher seeks to honor the memory of his daughter, Megan, a vibrant 30-year-old who had a profound impact on those around her. Megan disappeared from Saskatoon over five years ago, and in 2022, her body was discovered near the South Saskatchewan River. Nine individuals faced charges related to her tragic death.
Megan Gallagher: A Life Remembered
Megan was a compassionate person who loved to help others. She had a remarkable talent for making people laugh and was adored by children and animals alike. Coming from a family with a rich history in baseball, her grandfather, Joe Gallagher, was a notable figure, with a baseball field named in his honor at the Gordie Howe Sports Complex.
As a young girl, Megan showcased her athletic talents, pitching balls at speeds of 100 kilometers an hour by the age of twelve. Her passions extended beyond baseball; she played ringette and enjoyed spending time with her step-brother wrestling. A passionate food lover, Megan aspired to become a red-seal chef and took joy in cooking for her loved ones. “She liked to see people happy,” Brian recalled, noting how she was always quick to offer care and assistance.
Unexpected Disappearance
Megan was last seen by her family on September 18, 2020. Reflecting on that day, her stepmother, Debbie, noted, “There was absolutely nothing about that day that told us she was at risk.” It marked a bright day filled with memories, making her disappearance all the more shocking.
Continued Advocacy for Justice
In the aftermath of her death, Brian Gallagher has devoted himself to raising awareness regarding missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. He has organized marches and publicly shared Megan’s story, striving to highlight her life, rather than the tragedy that occurred.
A new podcast series titled “This is Saskatchewan: In Depth” delves into Megan’s life and the circumstances of her murder. It reveals unsettling details for the first time, coinciding with the conclusion of the final trial linked to her case. Despite the unbearable pain of revisiting these events, Brian and Debbie emphasize the importance of understanding the societal issues contributing to such tragedies.
Addressing Broader Issues
Brian remarked on the pressing need for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to recognize the patterns of violence facing Indigenous women. National statistics indicate that Indigenous women are disproportionately affected by murder, sexual assault, poverty, and other social challenges.
- Higher rates of murder and sexual assault
- Increased likelihood of suicide attempts
- Living in poverty
- Separation from children and foster care placement
As he reflects on Megan’s life, Brian Gallagher urges the community to aspire towards betterment and support one another. He believes that Megan’s story should prompt a focus on creating a safer environment for everyone.
In honoring his daughter’s memory, Brian hopes that she will be remembered not only for her tragic end but for the joy and care she brought into the lives of those around her.
