‘She’s dancing with the angels’ — tribute to victim
On stage Lena Zhang Harrap shone, her enthusiasm and infectious smile bringing joy to those watching and performing alongside the StarJam dancer who gave every routine her best.
Now those in Auckland’s Down Syndrome and StarJam community have been left heartbroken by the 27-year-old’s death, shocked that a daily walk turned to tragedy on a suburban street barely a kilometre from her home in Mount Albert.
A 31 year old man appeared in court yesterday charged with the murder and sexual violation of the young woman found dead on Wednesday after leaving home for a walk.
The accused, who has been granted interim name suppression, entered no plea and has been remanded in custody.
He was arrested in a car in Papatoetoe overnight.
Last night the New Zealand Down syndrome community said it was shocked by the heart- breaking news.
“The loss of a child is the worst possible nightmare for any wha¯nau, and the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association and the Auckland Down Syndrome Association, and the UpsideDowns Education trust offer their condolences to Lena’s family and friends,” said the organisation.
The organisations were now liaising to see how they could most effectively support the Harrap family and honour a life tragically taken.
StarJam, an organisation that uses music, dance and performance to connect young people with disabilities, posted a photo of Harrap, her hair being curled ahead of a show.
They paid tribute to the “true Jammer”, saying that for more than a decade Harrap had been part of the city’s dance crew and known for her infectious smile and enthusiasm.
“For over 12 years, Lena has been a true Jammer in Auckland Magic Movers and more recently the Central Alumni All Stars; greeting everyone with her infectious smile, genuine heartfelt support and inviting her fellow Jammers up to join her. Lena, you will always be in our hearts — our thoughts go out to your family and friends,” read a Facebook post.
One woman who worked at StarJam said Lena brought a special touch of magic to the stage.
Ella Stuart said: “It was such a privilege to know Lena — she was always so enthusiastic with everything she did and her love of dancing was truly wonderful to watch. She put the ‘magic’ in Magic Movers! She will be so missed and in our hearts and memories always.”
Another woman whose sister did StarJam alongside Harrap shared a touching post.
“She was so joyful. She’s dancing with the angels tonight,” wrote Hayley Cargill-Pautu.
The walkway where Harrap’s body was found in an area of bush alongside a paved pathway remained cordoned off yesterday.
Police said they were supporting Harrap’s family, who were devastated by the news.
“We know the news about this homicide investigation will be distressing to the public and to the local community in particular and we want to reassure them that Police have a large investigation team working hard to identify and locate anyone involved in Lena’s death.”