The mother of two boys from Saint John, tragically killed by their father last year, expressed that no legal outcome can ever fill the void left by the loss of her beloved sons. In a statement following the sentencing of Roman Kamyshnyy to life in prison without parole for 25 years, she emphasized that no courtroom decision could ease the pain she will carry for a lifetime.
Kamyshnyy, aged 46, received the mandatory sentence after being convicted of two counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of his 10 and 17-year-old sons. The judge, Justice Darrell Stephenson, acknowledged the prescribed sentence under the Criminal Code, emphasizing the limitations of his judicial authority.
The motive behind the brutal act was described as an act of vengeance by the judge, with Kamyshnyy’s ex-wife and her family being profoundly impacted. Evidence presented during the trial revealed the chilling details of Kamyshnyy’s plan to harm his children in an effort to inflict pain on his former spouse.
The Crown prosecutor highlighted the magnitude of the betrayal suffered by the victims, particularly the older son who fought desperately for his life against his own father. The community of Saint John was deeply affected by the heinous crimes, with lasting emotional scars on all those involved.
Despite maintaining a lack of memory regarding the events, Kamyshnyy attempted to shift blame onto his ex-wife during the proceedings. The judge imposed several conditions along with the sentence, including restrictions on contact with specific individuals and possession of firearms.
Numerous victim impact statements were submitted, reflecting the profound and enduring impact of the tragedy on the victims’ families and the wider community. The mother of the boys expressed gratitude for the support received during the ordeal and vowed to honor her sons’ memory as she strives to move forward while carrying them in her heart.
