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Jury Sees Gruesome Evidence in Stefanski Case
4 Jun
Summary
- Jury shown graphic photos of ex-wife found off forest road.
- Knife near victim had DNA of both victim and accused.
- Accused appeared shoeless and confessed to murder.
In the B.C. Supreme Court, a jury in the murder trial of Vitali Stefanski was shown graphic photographs of his ex-wife, Tatjana Stefanski, whose body was discovered off a forest road in April 2024. Justice Bradford Smith cautioned the jury about the nature of the evidence, emphasizing its role in determining facts rather than evoking sympathy.
RCMP forensic investigators detailed their findings at the scene. Cpl. Robert Riemer described the challenging terrain used to access the body. Evidence presented included a bent knife, found with the DNA of both Tatjana and Vitali Stefanski, and plastic and leather sheaths. The victim sustained numerous sharp force injuries and stab wounds to her chest.
Officers testified that Vitali Stefanski was observed shoeless on the road the day his ex-wife's body was found and allegedly confessed to the crime. Photographs taken of the accused at a hospital later that day showed no significant injuries, according to testimony. The defense has yet to present its case, and the trial is scheduled to continue.
