Charges laid in 26-year-old double murder case
Posted Dec 8, 2020 11:59 am.
Last Updated Dec 8, 2020 12:19 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) – Charges have been laid in a double murder that happened 26 years ago.
In the summer of 1994, two people broke into a house along 10 Ave. near 24 St. SE where they and shot and killed two men, Trevor Deakins and Christian Buchart.
Investigators believed the motive for the shooting related to the sale of cannabis within that house.
Despite an extensive investigation, the suspects weren’t identified.
Last year, the case was reopened and existing forensic evidence collected in 1994 was used to identify a person of interest.
Police later searched a home in Queen Isabella Close SE where they arrested one man.
“There have been significant advancements in forensic technology since this double homicide occurred,” said S/Sgt. Colin Chisholm. “Our investigators work tirelessly to solve each case and bring closure to a victim’s family, regardless of how much time has passed. We will continue to re-examine all of our city’s unsolved homicides in the pursuit of justice.”
Leonard Cochrane, 51, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and will appear in court on Friday, Dec. 11.
The family of the two men who were murdered issued statements saying the last 26 years have been long and agonizing but they never lost hope.
“Our entire family is extremely relieved that Trevor is finally getting the justice he deserves. He can now truly Rest in Peace! We are and will forever be grateful for the time the Calgary Cold Case Homicide Unit invested to get justice for Trevor and Barry,” said Carol Williamson, the mother of Trevor Deakins.
“We cannot express enough of our gratitude to the Calgary police Homicide Unit, for working so hard and never giving up over 26 years, trying to solve the tragic death of my brother Barry and roommate Trevor. Our hopes are that one day we will find closure. We ask for privacy during this difficult time. Thank you,” said the brother of Christian Buchart.
Investigators are still working to determine the identity of the second suspect.
Police are asking anyone who was associated with Leonard Cochrane from 1990 to 1995 to contact Calgary police.
