Partner charged with murder after death of woman at Seabird Island home

The Lower Mainland’s homicide team says a man has been charged with murder in connection to the death of his partner at a home in Sq’éwqel (Seabird Island) First Nation in April.

The killing happened on April 6 this year, when Agassiz RCMP officers received reports of a “sudden death” along Charles Drive near Sqewqel Drive.

When police arrived, they found 33-year-old Vanessa Terry dead.

“As a result of evidence obtained by the BC Coroners Service, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) took conduct of the investigation and continued to work closely in partnership with the Agassiz RCMP, the BC Coroners Service, and the Integrated Forensic Identification Services (IFIS) to advance the investigation,” Corp. Chase Smith said in a statement Thursday.

IHIT says the BC Prosecution Service approved one count of second-degree murder Thursday against a 36-year-old man. Police say he has been remanded in custody awaiting his first court appearance.

“Incidents of intimate partner violence are tragic and have devastating, long-lasting effects on families and communities. IHIT would like to extend our condolences to Ms. Terry’s loved ones and community,” said Smith.