A 48-year-old man has been charged with four counts of first degree murder in relation to Friday’s shooting in Fredericton.
The deadly shooting resulted in the deaths of four people, including two police officers. They have been identified as Lawrence Robert Costello, age 43, and Sara Mae Helen Burns, age 45.
Our deepest condolences to the families of our fallen members 45-year-old Lawrence Robert Costello and 43-year-old Sara Mae Helen Burns and the other victims in this morning's shootings. pic.twitter.com/9TeWn5OqWx
— Fredericton Police (@CityFredPolice) August 10, 2018
The suspect, Matthew Vincent Raymond, was shot by police and is receiving treatment in hospital.
Police Chief Leanne Fitch told a news conference today that the accused was using a long gun, shooting from an “elevated position.” She added that a link has not been made between Raymond and the victims, but the investigation is ongoing.
The two other victims were identified as Bobbie Lee Wright, age 32, and Donald Robichaud, age 42. Wright and Robichaud were in a new relationship according to Robichaud’s cousin, Sean Callahan. They had just started seeing each other at the beginning of August.
Callahan described Robichaud as a loving parent who played bass and sang in a few local bands. He leaves behind two teenage sons and an adult daughter.
"The guy was so likable, like, I don’t think he had anybody that hated him, and Donnie, if he even hated you, he’d still give you the shirt off his back − he would help you out," Callahan said
The two officers killed in the shooting also leave behind families. Burns was married with three children and Costello was a father of four children.
Just after I tucked my son in bed tonight, and reflected on the day, it was with chagrin that I realised that at least seven children in Fredericton tonight would not have the same luxury. To the children of Sara Burns and Robb Costello, I with you peace and comfort this night.
— Chief Jean-Michel Blais, HRP (@JMBlais1) August 11, 2018
"Just after I tucked my son in bed tonight, and reflected on the day, it was with chagrin that I realized that at least seven children in Fredericton tonight would not have the same luxury. To the children of Sara Burns and Robb Costello, I wish you peace and comfort this night," Halifax police chief Jean−Michel Blais wrote on Twitter on Friday night.
Law enforcement across Canada are lowering their flags to half mast.
As the sun sets on today, we want to thank everybody for the amazing outpouring of love and support today. We feel it. pic.twitter.com/WhNmQkdqRX
— Fredericton Police (@CityFredPolice) August 10, 2018
Raymond is to remain in custody until his court date on Aug. 27, 2018.
- With files from The Canadian Press.
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