Police identify couple killed and the suspect in Chilliwack shootings

Homicide detectives have identified two people found dead in a home in rural Chilliwack on Wednesday and say an elderly suspect has been charged.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team says 58-year-old John Kavaloff and 67-year-old Valerie Smith were found in the home as officers responded to reports of gunfire.

Police say 83-year-old Robert Freeman was nearby and was taken into custody a short time later.

Court documents show he made a first appearance before a judge late Thursday and is due to return to provincial court in Chilliwack on Sept. 25.

Homicide team spokesman Sgt. Timothy Pierotti says the shooting "appears to be an isolated incident between neighbours."

He urges any witnesses to contact police, and says there are no immediate plans to release any further information about the case.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 15, 2023.

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Howard Alexander

Howard Alexander

Assistant Editor Howard Alexander comes to iNFOnews.ca from the broadcasting side of the media business.

Howard has been a reporter, news anchor, talk show host and news director, first in Saskatchewan and then the Okanagan.

He moved his family to Vernon in the 90s and is proud to call the Okanagan home.

If you have an event to share contact Howard at 250-309-5343or email halexander@infonews.ca.