Homicide investigators have charged the person they believe responsible for the murder of a Burnaby father in 2015.
On Monday, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team announced a second degree murder charge against Jordan Braun, 19, in the death of Elmer Libertino.
Libertino’s body was found lying on Moscrop Street and Smith Avenue in the early morning of April 16, 2015.
At the time, investigators determined the 34-year-old had died from injuries as a result of foul play.
“After a review of the evidence, there’s nothing to suggest that Mr. Libertino and Mr. Braun were known to each other,” IHIT Cpl. Meghan Foster said. “Investigators worked tirelessly to gather evidence and pursue investigative leads. The tenacious efforts of IHIT investigators, and their policing partners, have resulted in this positive outcome."
She noted the circumstances leading up to the homicide are part of the case going to court and couldn’t speak in detail, but added investigators believe the murder was a random act.
Foster noted Braun, also a Burnaby resident, had just turned 18 at the time of the alleged homicide and was known to police. She also said investigators established Braun as a person of interest early on the case and it took 19 months to get enough evidence to lay a charge.
Libertino’s family also released a statement through IHIT: “We are thankful for sharing the precious life of a dearest son, an amazing brother, a trusted friend, a great and loving father, and husband, Elmer, or Tootz as known to many, who was taken from us suddenly. Our hearts are irreparably broken, and our lives are forever altered for his untimely and tragic loss. He came to Canada with a great dream for himself, for his loving wife, and for his three smart and beautiful kids, but he was taken away so soon...He is dearly missed every day. On behalf of our family, we will be forever grateful to IHIT for their utmost dedication, commitment, and perseverance in helping us attain peace and justice. Words will never be enough to say how we appreciate everything they did, thank you so much. To all our relatives and friends who supported us in this challenging journey of our life, we appreciate all the help and prayers. We were able to bring him back "home". Elmer's passing is a reminder for all of us that life is precious and love is forever.”
As for Braun, he remains in custody until his first court appearance on Wednesday.
