Celine Dion performs during a benefit concert in memory of Denis Blanchette, Monday, October 1, 2012, in Montreal. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paul Chiasson
October 01, 2012 - 8:40 PM
MONTREAL - Celine Dion saluted the victims of Quebec's election-night shooting by opening a benefit concert Monday night in their honour.
Dion, Arcade Fire and Ben Harper are headlining a show at the Metropolis in Montreal — the same venue where Denis Blanchette was fatally shot on Sept. 4.
An emotional Dion offered her condolences to Blanchette's family before opening the concert with one song.
Funds raised from the show are going toward a trust fund for Blanchette's young daughter.
The 48-year-old lighting technician was killed when he was struck by a single bullet at the Parti Quebecois victory rally.
Donations are also being collected for Dave Courage, the other man hit by the same bullet.
Premier Pauline Marois is also attending the concert.
Marois was giving her victory speech on the Metropolis stage when Blanchette and Courage were shot outside the venue — just metres away from her.
A man arrested in connection with the shooting is to reappear in court on Oct. 11.
Richard Henry Bain faces 16 charges, including first-degree murder, three counts of attempted murder and arson.
News from © The Canadian Press, 2012