Overview

In a shocking development, the Rocky View School Division (RVSD) has confirmed that the female victim of a tragic double homicide in Calgary is Ania Kaminski, a beloved elementary school teacher based in Cochrane, Alberta. Kaminski, who taught a Grade 1/2 class at Elizabeth Barrett Elementary School, was found dead late Sunday night, marking a devastating loss for her community.

Condolences and Community Support

“We offer our sincerest condolences to all who are impacted by Ania Kaminski’s death,” the RVSD stated on their website. The statement further reflected on Kaminski's dedicated service, highlighting her previous teaching roles at an elementary school in Airdrie and a high school in Springbank. “She will be deeply missed by many colleagues, friends, and students at Rocky View Schools. We are grateful for the positive impact Ania had on the lives of our students and staff over the years.”

Investigation Details

In light of this tragedy, RVSD is providing emotional support services for both students and staff, ensuring that the community has access to the necessary resources during this difficult time.

Details surrounding the gruesome events of Sunday night are still emerging. At approximately 9:30 p.m., police received a call concerning a residence in the 0 to 100 block of Kincora Grove N.W. Upon arrival, officers discovered a deceased man in his 70s. As the investigation progressed, another victim—a woman in her 30s believed to be Kaminski—was located at a different residence around 11:15 p.m. in the 300 block of Tuscany Ridge Heights N.W.

Suspect Identification

Authorities have confirmed that the suspected perpetrator is Benedict Kiminski, Ania’s husband, and the deceased man is his father-in-law. A police spokesperson indicated that the full circumstances surrounding these tragic deaths are not yet clear, stating, “The timeline is unclear,” during a press briefing by Insp. Lee Wayne of the Calgary Police Service’s major crimes unit.

Community Response and Reflection

An emergency alert was issued on Monday afternoon for the suspected shooter, who was later found dead, prompting concerns and fears in the community. Investigators believe that the incident was targeted and domestic in nature, shedding light on the unsettling reality of family-related violence.

As the community mourns the loss of Ania Kaminski, discussions around the importance of mental health support and resources to combat domestic violence are gaining momentum. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for ongoing dialogue and action to prevent such devastating incidents in the future. The RVSD and the wider Cochrane community are coming together to honor Ania's memory and support one another during this profoundly painful time.