A school division in southern Alberta says colleagues, friends and students will deeply miss one of their teachers, who was the victim of a double homicide over the weekend.
In a statement Tuesday, Rocky View Schools said Ania Kaminski had been working as a teacher at an elementary school in Cochrane, northwest of Calgary, before she was killed Sunday.
He previously worked at a primary school in Airdrie and a secondary school in Springbank.
“We offer our deepest condolences to all those affected by the death of Ania Kaminski,” the statement said.
“She will be deeply missed by many colleagues, friends and students of Rocky View Schools. We are grateful for the positive impact Ania had on the lives of our students and staff over the years.”
Police said a woman in her 30s and a man in his 70s, the woman’s father, were found dead in two separate locations in Calgary, prompting a search for Kaminski’s spouse.
On Tuesday, police confirmed to CBC News that the male victim’s name was Stanislaw Wardzala and the female victim was his daughter, Ania.
Late Monday, police found the body of the suspect, Benedict Kaminski, 38, near his vehicle parked in a rural area 80 kilometers northwest of Calgary.
He was not previously known to police and had no prior criminal convictions, Insp. Lee Wayne told reporters on Monday.
Reason for murders under investigation
Wayne said investigators were working to determine a motive for the murders, but they were believed to be targeted.
The school division said it offers its sincere condolences to all those affected and is working to support students and staff.
“Families have been informed about the supports available in our schools for any students who may need them,” the division said. “We encourage parents/guardians to contact their school administrators to discuss their students’ needs.”
A family friend started a GoFundMe page. By Tuesday afternoon, he had raised more than $120,000 to support his three children, calling her a beloved mother, daughter, sister and friend.
Police said the children are safe. Autopsies on both victims will be performed on Friday.
