Print at 2021 Murder Scene Linked to Accused, Officer Says

Court Hears Print Evidence in 2021 Homicide Case

In a Kelowna Supreme Court trial on December 18, a Kelowna RCMP officer and print analyst testified that a palm print found at the June 2021 murder scene matches the accused. This evidence came as part of the ongoing second-degree murder case against the defendant, who is charged in connection with the death of a man at a home on Sycamore Road. 

The print evidence was discovered inside the residence where the victim’s body was found, and the court heard how investigators lifted it from a desk surface during the original homicide investigation.

Details of the 2021 Scene as Presented in Court

The victim’s body was discovered in the bathroom of the home on Sycamore Road on June 17, 2021, with injuries that prompted a detailed police investigation. Investigators found a palm print in a reddish brown substance, believed to be blood, on top of a desk. The print was analyzed by an RCMP officer trained in print comparison and matched to the accused’s right palm.

The analyst explained the approach used in comparing prints and noted that standard practice includes verification, which in this case confirmed the match. 

Confession and Legal Challenges

At the time of arrest, the accused reportedly made a confession to police admitting involvement in the killing. However, that statement may not be used at trial after a judge ruled it may have been obtained in violation of the accused’s rights. 

The defence has been marked by changes in legal representation, with the accused firing lawyers mid-trial in late 2023 and subsequent counsel seeking to withdraw, prompting delays. A psychiatric assessment ordered by the court later determined the accused fit to stand trial. 

Trial Continues in New Year

The judge overseeing the case confirmed that testimony will resume on December 19, as part of the trial now scheduled to span 44 court days. The evidence presented so far, including the print match and excluded confession, will continue to shape the proceedings as they move into the new year.

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