A Calgary man has been charged with second-degree murder following a random fatal stabbing in Inglewood, Alberta last weekend.
The victim has been identified as 39-year-old Edward Brett Davidson. According to family, he had recently relocated to Calgary from Vancouver Island in search for a new adventure.
The incident occurred in 1000 block of 9 Avenue S.E. at around 1:35 p.m. on Saturday, August 27th, for reports of a man that had been assaulted.
Davidson, a resident in the building where the attack occurred, was confronted in a hallway by a man who had family ties to another tenant.
Police said the two men had never met before. Davidson was then randomly attacked by the accused with a knife.
He then stumbled onto the street where officers and first responders found him suffering from life-threatening injuries. Davidson was rushed to hospital where he later died.
“This was a tragic, senseless death that did not have to happen. The suspect is known to police and we are actively advocating he remain in custody to ensure public safety,” Staff Sgt. Martin Schiavetta said in a statement.
“To Brett’s family and friends, our deepest condolences and our promise that we will do all we can to hold the accused accountable.”
“Words cannot explain the pain, hurt, heartache and impact this loss will forever have on our family and friends,” the family wrote in a statement that police released to the media.
“Brett’s life revolved around his close-knit family and many friends. A loving son, profound older brother, and caring confidant, Brett was always there to support those that needed him.”
Following the attack, dozens of officers searched for CCTV footage to assist in identifying a potential suspect. Through that, the suspect was identified and several hours later apprehended by Calgary Police.
Cory Carl Miklic, also known as Cory Szabo, 41, was initially charged with manslaughter, however, after further investigation, reviewing autopsy results, and conferring with the prosecution, the charge was upgraded to second-degree murder.
The statement said Davidson was an athlete, a coach and served his country in the Navy.
“Brett was a well-travelled man whose kind soul and passion for life were felt far and wide,” it said.
“This loss is a tragedy and has left a void in the hearts of all of us lucky enough to call him a friend, brother and son — he can never be replaced.”
