An RCMP officer testified in court on Tuesday that a British Columbia man accused of murdering his partner confessed to the crime and said he had attempted suicide. The testimony came during the trial of Jason Gaudreault, who is charged with second-degree murder in the death of Tatjana Stefanski.
Confession Details
Constable Michael Chen told the court that Gaudreault made the confession during a police interview shortly after his arrest. According to Chen, Gaudreault stated, "I killed her. I tried to kill myself too." The officer noted that the suspect appeared dishevelled and emotional during the interrogation.
Background of the Case
Tatjana Stefanski, 54, was reported missing on April 13, 2024, after she failed to return home from a walk in Lumby, a small community in the B.C. Interior. Her body was discovered the following day in a wooded area. Gaudreault, her long-time partner, was arrested shortly thereafter.
The prosecution alleges that Gaudreault killed Stefanski during a domestic dispute. The defence has not yet presented its case.
Medical Evidence
The court also heard from a forensic pathologist who confirmed that Stefanski died from blunt force trauma. The pathologist noted multiple injuries consistent with an assault.
The trial is expected to continue for several weeks, with additional witnesses including forensic experts and family members.
Gaudreault remains in custody. His lawyer has not commented on the confession testimony.
