A 29-year-old woman has been charged following a fatal stabbing that took place early Saturday morning in downtown Campbell River.
Shortly before 2 a.m. on October 12th, Campbell River RCMP received a report of a possible stabbing in the 1300-block of Dogwood Street.
An officer with the detachment’s Crime Prevention Unit happened to be patrolling nearby and arrived on scene within a minute of the call. Police say the officer was able to identify and arrest a 29-year-old woman as she was attempting to flee.
Two other officers soon arrived and began life-saving efforts on a 30-year-old woman who had suffered a serious stab wound. Despite the efforts of police, Campbell River Fire and BC Ambulance personnel, the victim died from her injuries.
Later that evening, 29-year-old Pauline Bruce was charged with second-degree murder. She remains in police custody as the investigation continues.
“My heart aches for my dear niece Pauline Bruce… this is not the path it should have gone,” wrote her aunt, Gloria Robertson on Facebook. “Yes, Pauline had struggles. Yes, she carried a lot of pain and anger… this is not an excuse for what she has done, but her consequences will be hers to carry.”
Robertson asked the public to be mindful of both families as they process the tragedy, saying, “We can’t take away your pain, but we can work together on it… she will need support and love after this one.”
The case is being handled by the Campbell River RCMP’s Major Crime Unit, North Island RCMP Forensic Section, and “C” Watch.
Police have spoken with several witnesses but believe some people may have left the area before officers arrived.
Anyone who saw what happened and hasn’t yet spoken with investigators is asked to contact the Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221.
