Kamloops victim in ‘senseless’ attack dies, murder charge laid

A regular Kamloops shelter resident, who was seriously injured in an assault, has succumbed to his injuries and his alleged attacker has now been charged.

Jason Pinette, 39, was taken to hospital with serious injuries on Sept. 27, but he didn’t survive.

Justin Hopkin-Jones is now in custody and accused of second-degree murder, charged just days after the attack, according to Kamloops RCMP.

“Our team has worked diligently over the course of this investigation to gather evidence and follow-up on investigative material,” Supt. Jeff Pelley said in the news release issued today, Oct. 10.

Police responded early in the morning to the area around the Merit Place shelter where witnesses were providing emergency care to a seriously injured Pinette.

Kamloops RCMP have not released many details about the incident, but Cpl. Dave Marshall of the Serious Crime Unit had last week described it as a “senseless attack.”

“The victim is known to be a kind and generous person who is described as helpful to other residents at the Merit Place Shelter,” he said.

Canadian Mental Health Association Kamloops operates the shelter and the non-profit issued a statement offering condolences to Pinette’s friends and family.

“The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Kamloops Branch is deeply saddened to learn that the client who was assaulted outside Merit Place Shelter has passed away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the individual’s family, friends, and all who are affected by this tragic loss,” the statement read.

It added that it’s cooperating with police during the investigation, while offering additional support for residents and staff who were impacted by the attack on Pinette and his death.

Police had earlier called out for witnesses who might have information about a missing backpack, though they had a man in custody already at that time.

What might have been in the backpack isn’t known.

RCMP said no further information will be released to the public.

— This story was updated with a statement from Canadian Mental Health Association Kamloops at 11:28 a.m., Oct. 10, 2025.