SURREY (NEWS1130) – Metro Vancouver’s fastest-growing city has been in the headlines for too many tragic reasons over the holidays and into the new year.

People concerned about the violence and crime in Surrey now want something done. A group is holding a public meeting on Monday.

“Fearful, furious and frustrated” is how some people in Newton describe themselves, after the fatal attack on a mother outside a local arena over the weekend.

They want action from the City to increase safety in their neighbourhood. People from all over Surrey are concerned about crime and violence.

“There’s a lot more crime; it’s scary walking at night,” says one woman. “I don’t know what else can be done.”

“I think there’s a laissez-faire feeling with a lot of people,” says Leonard.

“Yeah there’s drug dealers around and all, but they’re killing each other off — and that’s fine. But as soon as it hits somebody in the community, all of a sudden it takes some importance and everyone kind of feels that something has to be done.”

The Newton Community Association meets Monday at 7 p.m. at the Newton Seniors Centre; it says say everyone is welcome. They will be demanding answers from the City.

The killing of Julie Paskall was the 25th homicide in Surrey in 2013.