Warren Glowatski: What Happened to Reena Virk’s Attacker and Where He is Today?

Warren Glowatski’s story is one marked by violence, regret, and a desire for redemption. In 1997, as a teenager, he played a pivotal role in one of the most haunting crimes in Canadian history — the brutal murder of 14-year-old Reena Virk. However, over the years, Glowatski has transformed from a troubled teen into a man who’s taken responsibility for his actions. But while his past remains an unforgettable part of his story, what about Warren Glowatski today? How has his life evolved since serving time for his involvement in Reena’s death, and where is he now?

The Brutal Murder of Reena Virk: Warren Glowatski’s Role

In 1997, 14-year-old Reena Virk was lured to a secluded spot under a Victoria-area bridge and beaten by a group of teens. For years, according to the parole board, Sim did not show any remorse for murdering Virk.
Source: CBC

In 1997, when Warren Glowatski was just 16 years old, he was one of the teenagers responsible for a brutal and senseless act of violence that ended the life of Reena Virk under a bridge in Victoria, Canada. What started as a vicious assault turned into an act of unimaginable cruelty involving punching, kicking, and even burning her with a cigarette on her forehead as Glowatski, along with Kelly Ellard, followed Reena across the bridge. After the initial attack, the pair attacked her again across the Craigflower Bridge and drowned her in the Gorge Waterway.

Glowatski’s involvement in the crime came after he had already been living a tumultuous life. Raised in a fractured home, with an alcoholic mother and an absentee father, Glowatski found himself entangled in a world of gang affiliations and rebellion. But nothing could have prepared him for the impact of his actions on that fateful night in 1997.

The Legal Battle and Conviction

Convicted killer Kerry Marie Sim, who was known as Kelly Ellard when this photo was taken in 2000, has been allowed day parole again after a two-month suspension due to concerning behaviour including drug use and domestic abuse. ]
Source: Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press

Warren Glowatski’s trial began in April 1999, and his testimony was key to his conviction. While he admitted to kicking Reena, he denied any involvement in her drowning, placing the blame on Kelly Ellard. However, his defense was unsuccessful, and Glowatski was convicted of second-degree murder in June 1999. The judge found his testimony “incomplete and improbable” and sentenced him to life in prison with the possibility of parole.

During his time in prison, Glowatski would go through significant emotional and psychological growth. He participated in rehabilitation programs, expressing deep remorse for his actions. In a 2007 parole hearing, he admitted that his behavior had been driven by a need for attention and a misguided sense of power. The violence, he later realized, stemmed from his own unresolved struggles and insecurities.

How Glowatski Has Changed

Warren Glowatski’s journey toward redemption became more apparent as the years passed. While incarcerated, he remained out of trouble and took part in restorative-justice programs. He even met with Reena Virk’s parents, Suman and Manjit Virk, who were initially reluctant to meet with him but later expressed that the encounter helped them heal. Suman Virk, in particular, acknowledged that seeing Glowatski take responsibility for his actions allowed her to let go of some of the anger and pain.

Glowatski’s efforts to speak out about bullying and the impact of his actions on the lives of others have contributed to his ongoing rehabilitation. In a 2007 parole hearing, he committed to making amends, saying, “I hope that one day I will be able to be as caring, selfless… I don’t take your support for granted.” His sincere efforts and the forgiveness of Virk’s parents paved the way for his release. Reena’s mother, Suman Virk, said Glowatski was the only one who truly showed remorse for the crime.

The Legacy of Reena Virk

The death of Reena Virk left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and the entire Canadian community. Her tragic story has continued to inspire anti-bullying campaigns and calls for justice reform. Virk’s parents, Suman and Manjit, have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of bullying and violence, much of which they believe stems from societal pressures and broken homes.

In 2023, when Warren Glowatski’s portrayal in the Hulu series Under the Bridge garnered renewed attention, he spoke about his role in the crime and his efforts to educate others. His portrayal by actor Javon Walton highlighted the complexities of adolescence, suggesting that Glowatski, like many others, was struggling with internal issues when he committed his crime. This portrayal has sparked further conversations about redemption and the paths that individuals can take after committing heinous acts.

Warren Glowatski Today: Life After Parole

Javon Walton portrays Warren Glowatski, who was convicted of murdering Reena Virk, in “Under the Bridge.”
Source: Bettina Strauss/Hulu

After serving time in prison, Glowatski was granted parole in 2007, and in 2010, he was fully released. Today, at 44 years old, he lives a relatively quiet life, having stayed out of the public eye for the most part. Glowatski has continued to speak about bullying and tries to raise awareness about the importance of addressing underlying issues that lead to violent behavior.

His transformation from a convicted murderer to a man who actively seeks to educate others about the consequences of their actions is remarkable. While no one can undo the tragedy that occurred in 1997, Warren Glowatski’s journey is a testament to the possibility of redemption and personal growth.

FAQs

Is Warren Glowatski still active in speaking about bullying? Yes, Glowatski has used his story to speak out about bullying and the issues that can lead to violent behavior. His efforts to raise awareness about the impact of bullying have become a central part of his life after prison.

Did Warren Glowatski ever meet Reena Virk’s parents? Yes, Glowatski met with Reena Virk’s parents, Suman and Manjit, during his time in prison. Their meeting was a turning point in his journey, and Suman Virk later spoke about how their encounter helped her begin to heal.

Has Warren Glowatski been in the news since his release? Glowatski has largely stayed out of the public eye since his release in 2010. However, his story was brought back into the spotlight with the release of the Hulu series Under the Bridge, which dramatized the events surrounding Reena Virk’s death.

Where is Warren Glowatski today? Glowatski is living a private life, having maintained a low profile since his release. His focus now is on personal growth, helping others through his experiences, and continuing his advocacy work regarding bullying.

What was the outcome of Warren Glowatski’s parole hearings? Glowatski was granted parole after completing several rehabilitation programs and showing genuine remorse for his actions. His release was supported by Reena Virk’s parents, who believed he had taken full responsibility for his crime.