A picture taken at the time of the incident last September. (File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Crime

South Hill mall murder case moves closer to trial

May 16, 2022 | 5:05 PM

Nearly eight months after a 25-year-old man was found deceased at Prince Albert’s South Hill mall parking lot, the subsequent court case is showing signs of moving forward.

As per discussions Monday morning at provincial court, preliminary hearing dates have now been set for Chandler Laliberte and Clarissa Campbell. They’re each facing a charge of second degree murder in the death of Johnny Besskkaystare.

On Nov. 15, a judge will decide if the Crown’s case is strong enough for the pair to face trial. If it’s deemed there is, the case will then be moved to Court of Queen’s Bench where a pre-trial hearing will first be held.

Family members say John Joe Besskkaystare was very passionate about his guitar. (Facebook/Jen Bendoni)

At this stage of the court proceedings, the motive remains unclear and police have said the accused did not know the victim.

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Besskkaystare’s sister Julie Laban told paNOW her brother was visiting the city from Wollaston Lake.

“He was a very nice person and he didn’t make trouble with anyone. He has never been out to drink and he there for his appointment and this is what happened,” she said.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell