Police say a man of no fixed address has been charged with the second-degree murder of a woman in the quiet community of Bowser.
Forensics officers were coming and going from a home on Thompson Clark Drive West for a second day Wednesday.
Neighbours say it comes as a complete surprise.
“I was absolutely shocked to hear that it was because of a homicide. I’m blown away. We live in a very small community and it’s very quiet and it’s just a real shock,” said Heidi Frank, a neighbour.
“That’s sad. I don’t like to hear that for anybody,” said Brad Hay, another neighbour.
BC Ambulance, firefighters and police got a call shortly after four Wednesday morning of an injured woman.
“Upon arrival, Oceanside RCMP found that BC Ambulance and fire were already on scene treating someone who was suffering from serious injuries. That person then succumbed to those injuries. Not long after a suspect was identified and was arrested,” said Sgt. Chris Manseau of Island District RCMP.
Court documents show 43-year-old Luciano Emilio Mariani is facing one count of second-degree murder in the death of Caroline Bernard.
He will be held in custody until a court hearing, scheduled to be a bail hearing, September 7th.
Neighbours say they would see a woman from the rental property walking with a girl down the street. They say there was also an older woman living at the home.
“I don’t know them that well. [I’d] Say hi once in a while. Never hear them. Never see them. Quiet people. Good neighbours,” said Hay.
Police say this is an isolated incident, the suspect and victim knew each other and there is no ongoing risk to the public.
Police would not elaborate on the relationship between the two.
The BC Coroner’s Service is also investigating.
Kendall Hanson
