ON November 21, a second person — 36-year-old Curtis Crossley — was charged with second-degree murder in the November 19 death of 51-year-old Robert Powshuk in New Westminster.

On November 19 at approximately 6:32 a.m., the New Westminster Police Department received a call from the Waves Coffee House located at 715 Columbia Street advising that a male had entered the store and was bleeding heavily.

NWPD patrol members located the victim, Powshuk, and along with New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services provided lifesaving interventions. Powshuk, who was suffering from life-threatening injuries, was transported to the Royal Columbian Hospital where lifesaving interventions continued; however, he did not survive.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team was called in to investigate. Investigators then located and arrested two people for their alleged involvement. On November 19, the BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) charged Ryan Crossley, 31, with second-degree murder, while investigators were still determining the second person’s involvement.

IHIT investigators worked in partnership with the NWPD, the NWPD Forensic Identification Section (FIS), and the BC Coroners Service. After continued investigation, supported by additional resources from the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) and the “E” Division Interview Team, homicide investigators secured additional evidence to support charges. On November 21, BCPS charged Curtis Crossley with second-degree murder. All those responsible have been taken into custody.

“We wish to assure the community that this was an isolated incident” said IHIT Sgt. David Lee. “Downtown New Westminster continues to be a safe place for everyone to be.” 

No further information will be released as the matter is now before the courts, police said.