Photo (left to right): Anastasia Kuzyk, Nathalie Warmerdam and Carol Culleton
WARNING: THIS STORY CONTAINS CONTENT THAT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL READERS
Almost 7-years after the horrific crimes took place, an inquest into a triple homicide in Renfrew County has started. On September 22nd, 2015, Carol Culleton, Anastasia Kuzyk and Nathalie Warmerdam were murdered by Basil Borutski, a man who was known to them and had a history of domestic violence. The inquest started Monday morning (June 6th, 2022) at the Best Western in Pembroke and was also live streamed for members of the public to view.
After laying out the plans for the inquest over the next three weeks, a moment of silence was held for the three women who were lost.
Chief Counsel at the Ontario Coroner’s Office, Prabhu Rajan, shared details of the terror filled morning to the jury. On the morning of September 22nd, the jury heard that Carol Culleton was strangled at her cottage near Combermere. The jury heard that the perpetrator stole her car and drove to Wilno where he gunned down Anastasia. Her sister was home at the time, but managed to escape and was able to call 911. The chief coroner testified that the perpetrator then drove to a home near Eganville and killed Nathalie. Her son watched him chase her with a gun and heard shots fired as he was fleeing.
The daughter of Nathalie Warmerdam and sister of Anastasia Kuzyk testified today as part of the inquest.
Susan Kuzyk testified that Anastasia, or “Stasia” as they called her, was a very loving and sweet sister. Susan read some words from their mother that talked about Anastasia’s love for animals, cooking, gardening and how she was an accomplished equestrian. She says Anastasia was kind, forgiving human being and a loving daughter. Susan told the jury her sister would have believed whole heartedly in the inquest process.
Valerie talked about how her mother worked as a nurse in palliative care and was heavily involved in the community. Valerie testified that pressing charges is something that can put victims in more danger. She says when dealing with someone who is violent and dangerous, pressing charges could make them more angry. Valerie is hopeful the inquest will bring recommendations for concrete changes. Valerie told the jury she worries the presence of family at the inquest will be on their minds in terms of recommendations that would do good for perpetrators, but noted the best option is the one where people are the safest.
It’s expected that the inquest will last 15-days and hear from a total of 30 witnesses. Family members of the victims, End Violence Against Women Renfrew County, witnesses, police, victim services, probation, parole, firearms experts and others are expected to speak and make requests to the five panel jury as part of the inquest.
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)
