After tragedy, a healing space grows in Hoodland for Phoenix Fournier’s memory

By Marie Kennedy, The Mountain Times

What began as a place for vigils and remembrance after the death of Phoenix Lane is evolving into something larger – a community healing space rooted in spiritual practices, support, and connection.

Friends, family members, and community supporters recently gathered at the Hoodland Bazaar, in what is now known as the Phoenix Room in Welches, for an official dedication honoring Phoenix’s legacy and the community response that followed her death.

The gathering included storytelling and the sharing of memories, a sound bath using Phoenix’s own crystal singing bowls, introductions to practitioners who now offer spiritual wellness workshops in the space, and the unveiling of a handcrafted wood-burned sign bearing the room’s name. Professional camera crews from CBS were also present as part of an upcoming episode of the TV show 48 Hours examining the case and the extraordinary community response surrounding it.

“This was really about creating a healing space to carry on Phoenix’s legacy,” said Christen Prudence, Hoodland Bazaar’s event manager, who helped organize the event and now facilitates sound baths and other gatherings in the space. “People come here, they feel her energy, and they want to be part of what’s growing here.”

Christen said the idea developed gradually after the murder trial concluded.

“People expected us to do something right after the trial, but we were exhausted,” she said. “We all needed time to process the trauma. Then Cari came to me with the idea of doing an official dedication, and everything just started coming together.”

The event was organized in partnership with the owners of Hoodland Bazaar, including brothers AJ and Khalid, who offered the space for healing-centered gatherings after Phoenix’s death. Since then, the room has hosted yoga, sound baths, group Reiki sessions, and other spiritual wellness events, as well as quarterly domestic violence workshops.

“We never did any official dedication,” said Cari Gesch, who was a close friend of Phoenix. “We just started calling it the Phoenix Room. This felt like the right time to formally honor her and create a place where people can continue healing.”

Cari described the dedication ceremony as deeply emotional, with community members sharing memories of Phoenix and discussing the impact her story has had on survivors of domestic abuse. Christen said one of the most touching moments for her was hearing multiple people share that Phoenix had encouraged them to leave abusive situations of their own.

“It really felt like the most beautiful way to honor her memory,” Cari said. “Everyone there felt her presence in their own way.”

The gathering also highlighted the continuing involvement of Clackamas Women’s Services, which has participated in multiple events connected to Phoenix’s legacy. Representatives from the nonprofit have attended community gatherings and continue offering quarterly “Support Your Neighbors” workshops and resources focused on domestic abuse awareness, survivor support, and bystander education.

Cari said the organization’s presence has become an important part of the community response.

“There are people who want to help someone in that situation, but they don’t know how,” she said. “These workshops give people resources and help them understand what support can look like.”

According to Cari, one of the lesser-known barriers survivors face is concern for their pets. She noted that Clackamas Women’s Services operates one of the few emergency shelters in Oregon that accepts animals alongside survivors.

“That was part of why Phoenix didn’t just leave,” Cari said. “Her dogs mattered to her.”

While Phoenix’s killer received a life sentence, supporters said they are still seeking accountability related to the deaths of her dogs. Christen said community members continue pressing for further legal action.

“Yes, he has a life sentence, but the dogs also matter,” Christen said. “Phoenix would not have rested if their story wasn’t heard too. We want justice for them as well.”

For organizers, the Phoenix Room is intended to remain an active community space rather than simply a memorial.

“My mission now is to make sure this space continues to be a place where people can heal, explore spirituality, and know there’s support if they’re in trouble,” Cari said.

She said the continued attention from national media, including the upcoming 48 Hours episode, may help expand awareness about domestic abuse and the importance of community support.

“If one person sees Phoenix’s story and realizes there are people willing to help them, then continuing to tell her story matters,” Cari said.