The mother of two boys in Saint John, tragically murdered by their father, expressed that no legal sentence could ever compensate for the immeasurable loss she feels. Following the sentencing of Roman Kamyshnyy to life in prison without parole for 25 years, she conveyed in a statement that the pain of losing her children and the enduring sorrow will remain with her forever.
Kamyshnyy, aged 46, received the mandatory sentence under the Criminal Code after being found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder by a jury. Justice Darrell Stephenson, while acknowledging the severity of the crime, emphasized the limitations of the judiciary system in such cases, expressing his restrained authority in the matter.
The motive behind Kamyshnyy’s heinous act, described by the judge as an act of “vengeance,” was revealed during the trial where it became apparent that he meticulously planned and executed the murders to inflict maximum pain on his ex-wife. The impact of his actions was profound and far-reaching, affecting not only his immediate family but also the wider community of Saint John.
Despite Kamyshnyy’s lack of remorse and attempts to shift blame, the court imposed stringent conditions along with the life sentence, including restrictions on contact with specific individuals, a DNA sample requirement, and a victim fine surcharge. The possibility of an appeal was not addressed by the defense counsel immediately after the sentencing.
Numerous victim impact statements were submitted to the court, underscoring the devastating consequences of the murders on the families, friends, and community members. The mother of the slain boys, through her lawyer, emphasized the need to remember her sons for the vibrant lives they led, rather than the tragic circumstances of their deaths.
Witness A’s family also shared their enduring pain and trauma caused by the senseless act, highlighting the lasting scars and shattered trust resulting from the incident. The community response reflected a collective commitment to honoring the memory of the victims and acknowledging the significance of every child’s life.