THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on Wednesday identified the homicide victim of the stabbing near the Metrotown Mall last December as 25-year-old Melissa Blimkie of North Vancouver.

The suspect was identified as 31-year-old Everton Downey. The two were in a relationship for some time prior to the homicide.

On December 19, at around 11:40 a.m., Burnaby RCMP responded to the Metrotown Mall at 4800 Kingsway for multiple calls of assistance. Frontline officers arrived and found one victim with stab wounds who was then transported to hospital. She later succumbed to her injuries.

Following several weeks of investigation, IHIT attained sufficient evidence for charges.  On January 19, the BC Prosecution Service laid a charge of second-degree murder against Downey, who remains in-custody. 

“This is an unimaginable loss for the friends and family of Melissa,” said IHIT Sgt. David Lee. “We hope that this outcome provides them with some answers.” 

Homicide investigators are continuing to investigate and Blimkie’s photo has been provided in efforts to identify associates who can provide more information about Downey’s relationship with her, said IHIT.  

Anyone with information is asked to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.