Urgent: Calgary Double Homicide Suspect on the Loose
Calgary Police Service (CPS) has issued a dangerous person alert for the city and surrounding areas, triggering a widespread manhunt for Benedict Kaminski, 38, a suspect in a double homicide that occurred on Sunday, December 29, 2024. The alert, issued on Monday, December 30, 2024, has sent shockwaves throughout the community, prompting heightened safety concerns among residents.
The Double Homicide Investigation
The investigation began Sunday evening around 9:30 p.m. when police responded to reports of a medical emergency at a residence in the Kincora neighborhood. Upon arrival, officers discovered a deceased man in his 70s. Subsequently, at approximately 11:15 p.m., a second victim, a woman in her 30s, was found dead in a separate home in the Tuscany neighborhood. Both deaths are believed to be targeted and domestic in nature, and The suspect is believed to be their family member. Inspector Lee Wayne of the CPS major crimes unit stated that the timeline of events is still unclear and is under investigation, highlighting the complexity of the case.
Unraveling the Timeline
Inspector Wayne stated, "Right now, the timeline is unclear. The CPS were called to Kincora at 21:30 last night—so 9:30 p.m.—where we found one of the deceased—the male deceased—and then we subsequently went to an address in Tuscany where there were additional concerns raised by family members, and that's where we found the female deceased. But as far as the timeline or the order of those events, we don't know—it's still under investigation." This uncertainty underscores the challenge faced by investigators in piecing together the sequence of events leading to the double homicide.
The Suspect: Benedict Kaminski
The suspect, identified as Benedict Kaminski, is described as a white male, approximately 6 feet tall, with brown and gray hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a gray, red, and white shirt. Kaminski is believed to be driving a black 2022 Nissan Pathfinder with Alberta license plate CLN 5276. He is believed to be in the northwest Calgary or Bearspaw area, which has led to heightened vigilance in these communities. According to Inspector Wayne, Kaminski "wasn't known to police in the past." "He's got no previous convictions," Wayne added, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the situation.
Public Safety Alert
The Alberta Emergency Alert, issued at 12:15 p.m., urged residents in the affected areas, including Bearspaw, Rocky Ridge, Tuscany, and surrounding communities, to exercise caution. Residents were advised to remain vigilant, avoid opening doors to strangers, and immediately report any sightings of Kaminski to emergency services by dialing 9-1-1. The alert further emphasized the importance of not posting details of police activity on social media, a measure intended to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the ongoing investigation.
Community Response and Cooperation
The police have emphasized the importance of community cooperation in apprehending Kaminski. Inspector Wayne stated, "And really, we're stronger together, as far as utilizing the public to help us in this investigation." This statement highlights the reliance on public vigilance and information sharing in resolving this critical situation. The police have also provided alternate methods to report information, including Crime Stoppers, who can be contacted by phone, online, or via the P3 Tips app.
The Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
The investigation is ongoing, with autopsies scheduled for both victims on Friday, January 3, 2025. Police are urging anyone with information about Kaminski's whereabouts or any details related to the incident to contact them immediately. They are actively pursuing all leads and deploying resources to locate the suspect as quickly and safely as possible. The motive behind the killings remains under investigation, though the domestic connection between the suspect and the victims is a key area of focus for the investigation team. The swift and decisive actions by the Calgary Police Service highlight their commitment to public safety and their determination to bring this dangerous situation to a resolution.
A City on Edge
The dangerous person alert has cast a shadow over Calgary, prompting a heightened sense of unease and uncertainty among its residents. As the search for Benedict Kaminski continues, the community remains on edge, awaiting updates and hoping for a swift resolution to this tragic and unsettling event. The cooperation of the public is crucial in helping authorities locate Kaminski and bring him into custody. Remember to stay alert, remain vigilant, and follow all instructions issued by law enforcement.