Calgary police investigate ‘suspicious’ deaths

Calgary police are investigating after a man and a woman were found dead in a southwest home on Friday.

Shortly after 9 p.m. on Dec. 15, officers were called for a welfare check on a woman who hadn’t been heard from for several days, investigators say, which caused concern from her friends.

Police found the woman dead in her home on 34 Avenue SW near Mission Road SW.

CityNews has learned the woman is Christina Thomson, a WestJet pilot beloved by her peers.

She is being described as compassionate, driven, and a strong leader, inspiring many pilots in and out of the company.

The airline pilots association says it’s deeply saddened to learn of her death.

“Words cannot begin to describe the sense of devastation, grief, and profound loss which now envelops the WestJet pilot group, with the tragic passing of Captain Christina Thomson,” said Capt. Bernard Lewall, chair of the WestJet Master Executive Council of the Airline Pilots Association, International.

“It is difficult to convey in words just how instrumental Capt. Thomson was to Canadian aviation. Capt. Thomson served in a variety of important leadership roles with the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), the worlds largest air safety organization,” he said. “Capt. Thomson volunteered her expertise and leadership skills widely with other airlines across North America, where she regularly met and presented to other pilot groups.

“Not only was Capt. Thomson a first-rate aviator, but she was also known as a driven and strong leader serving as a role model for younger women in aviation,” Lewell continued. “Her life will leave an indelible mark on all those fortunate to have met her. In addition to her professional successes, she had the unique ability to make everyone she crossed paths with feel like they were her closest friend.

“Our thoughts now turn to Christina’s memory, her family, and her closest friends at this very difficult time.”

In a statement to CityNews, WestJet said it’s aware of the tragic passing of Captain Christina Thomson.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out at this time to Captain Thomson’s family, friends and all those affected by this devastating loss,” it said.  

Calgary police provided an update Wednesday following an autopsy on the victims.

The man found dead in the home has been identified as 48-year-old Thomas Howell of Rowley, Mass.

However, a manner of death has yet to be determined.

Further testing is expected.

Police say the identities of the deceased are being released in hopes people will come forward with information in relation to their activities leading up to the discovery of their bodies.

Investigators also say they believe no other people were involved in the pair’s death.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact police at 403-266-1234 or tip anonymously through CrimeStoppers.