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Murder suspect emerged from woods, confessed to ex-wife's killing
27 May
Summary
- Suspect emerged shoeless from woods near towed car.
- Suspect told police, 'I am the reason you're here.'
- Bloody knife found near body contained DNA of victim and suspect.
In Kamloops, B.C., a murder trial has begun for Vitali Stefanski, accused of the second-degree murder of his ex-wife, Tatjana Stefanski. According to the Crown's opening statement, police encountered Vitali Stefanski emerging shoeless from the woods as his abandoned car was being towed from a forest road.
He reportedly confessed to the killing immediately, stating, "That is my car. I am the reason you're here." Tatjana Stefanski's body was discovered six kilometers from the vehicle, with evidence including a bloody knife containing DNA from both the victim and the accused.
Tatjana Stefanski was last seen on April 13, 2024, near Lumby, B.C. Her body was found the next day by officers. The investigation revealed she sustained multiple stab wounds, with some being consistent with defensive actions. Vitali Stefanski was later charged with second-degree murder on May 31, 2024.
Evidence presented by the Crown includes grainy video footage showing two figures entering a black car from the passenger side near the victim's residence. A subsequent search of a black Audi, matching the suspect's vehicle, revealed blood in the seats. The accused has pleaded not guilty.
