Tragedy struck the city of Saint John on the morning of January 31, 2025, when police discovered the bodies of two boys, aged 10 and 17, inside a residence on Skaling Court, following reports of suspicious activity.
Officers responded to a 911 call at approximately 7 a.m., where they gained access to the apartment after forcing entry. Inside, they found the two deceased boys and discovered a 46-year-old man with life-threatening injuries, who has since been taken to the hospital and placed under police custody.
According to information provided by Saint John Police Force, the man has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Police confirmed the accused was known to the victims, though they have not elaborated on the specifics of their relationship to protect the identities of those involved.
During Thursday's press conference, Staff Sgt. Sarah Hobbs described the situation as "extremely tragic and heartbreaking," offering condolences to the victims' families and underscoring the emotional toll on the community.
Neighbors living close to the scene expressed their shock upon learning about the incident. Witnesses reported hearing loud commotion, including yelling and slamming doors, leading up to the police's arrival. One anonymous neighbor described seeing blood on the walls and hallway floors as authorities investigated the apartment.
"It is very sad. I cannot believe this happened," said Saduf Abdullah, who has children who knew the victims from school. While being reassured by authorities about safety, Abdullah added, "We are very terrified, very scared." Surrounded by family, she articulated the disbelief many felt, saying, "This should not happen."
The local Anglophone South school district has activated its crisis response protocols to support the community following the devastating news. Jessica Hanlon, the spokesperson for the district, noted, "When one of our school communities faces such tragedy, we take steps to prioritize student well-being," ensuring counseling support is available for those affected.
This incident has left many wondering about the motivation behind such violence. Despite the gravity of the situation, police have stated they have no immediate concerns for public safety. Discussions surrounding the sense of security among residents have arisen, as many remain on edge following the murders.
Forensic identification teams are still processing the scene, and investigations are underway to gather more evidence and insights surrounding the events leading up to the deaths. The police have requested anyone with additional information to come forward, urging local residents to contact them or Crime Stoppers.
At the moment, there remain numerous unanswered questions. "I know there is still lots of questions... but unfortunately, that's the only answers I can provide today," remarked Hobbs. She reiterated the enormity of the tragedy and the careful, thorough nature of the investigation to follow.
With their lives cut short, the two boys’ untimely deaths remind us of the fragility of life and the need for communities to come together during such heart-wrenching moments. Friends, families, and acquaintances of the victims feel the tremors of grief sweeping through the neighborhood, as the once vibrant lives of two boys have left an indelible mark on those who knew them.
This painful episode will undoubtedly linger within the Saint John community long after the investigation concludes. The memories of the boys and the questions surrounding their death will challenge the residents to seek answers and healing amid such pain.