‘A long 35 years’: Murder charge laid in Canadian cold case thanks to genetic genealogy
Who killed Byron Howard Carr?
For more than three decades, that question has haunted his family, friends and the people of Prince Edward Island.
On Friday, Charlottetown police Chief Brad MacConnell said they finally had an answer.
“His tragic death shook our city and our province to its core,” MacConnell said during an emotional news conference.
“Unsolved for over 35 years, Byron’s murder has caused trauma to generations of Islanders.”
Todd Joseph Gallant, 56, also known as Todd Joseph Irving, was arrested Thursday in Souris, P.E.I., and charged with first-degree murder and interfering with human remains.
A second person was also arrested in connection with the case but later released. MacConnell said the investigation into that individual is ongoing.
“We would like to thank Byron Carr’s family for their patience and support throughout this investigation. We only wish we could have given these answers sooner,” MacConnell said.
Byron’s brother, John Carr, shared his family’s appreciation for the police force’s efforts — saying there were times the chief was “more optimistic than we were.”
“It’s been a long 35 years,” he said.
“Both our parents, mom and dad, have passed away and weren’t here to take part in this process today. We know they’re with us in spirit for sure. This would have been very important to them as the next step in pursuing justice for Byron.”
Carr — a former teacher — was 36 years old when he was found strangled and stabbed to death in his bedroom on Nov. 11, 1988. Police have said it was believed he was killed after a sexual encounter with another man.
“Yes. Byron was a gay man. A secret he kept from many people. A revelation only brought (to) light (by) his tragic death,” MacConnell said.
“Byron’s
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