The mother of two boys from Saint John, tragically killed by their father last year, expressed that no legal punishment can replace the immense loss of her beloved sons. Roman Kamyshnyy, the father, received a life sentence with no chance of parole for 25 years following his conviction for two counts of first-degree murder. Despite the sentencing, the mother emphasized that the grief and void left by her children’s absence will endure for a lifetime.
During the court proceedings at the New Brunswick Court of King’s Bench, Justice Darrell Stephenson highlighted the automatic nature of the sentence as per the Criminal Code, with the requirement that the sentences be served concurrently. He described the heinous nature of Kamyshnyy’s actions, fueled by a motive of vengeance against his ex-wife, Witness A. The judge underscored the profound impact on the community and the enduring trauma inflicted by Kamyshnyy’s brutal acts.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed the meticulous planning by Kamyshnyy to carry out the murders of his sons in a gruesome manner, targeting his ex-wife to exact revenge for their failed marriage. The heartbreaking testimony detailed the violent struggle that ensued, ultimately resulting in the tragic deaths of the two boys, aged 10 and 17.
The Crown prosecutor, Elaina Campbell, described the betrayal suffered by the victims, particularly the older son, who fought bravely for his life against his own father. The chilling impact of the murders resonated deeply within the Saint John community, leaving a lasting scar on all those affected. Kamyshnyy’s lack of remorse and accountability further compounded the anguish felt by the victims’ loved ones.
As the legal proceedings unfolded, victim impact statements were submitted, shedding light on the profound loss and enduring pain experienced by Witness A’s family and the greater community. The mother of the boys, through her lawyer, emphasized the need to remember her sons for the vibrant lives they lived, beyond the tragic circumstances of their deaths.
The sentencing marked a bittersweet moment for the mother, offering a semblance of closure while she continues to navigate the indescribable grief and rebuild her life in the wake of the devastating loss of her beloved sons. The community rallied around her, providing unwavering support and compassion during her darkest hours, as she strives to honor the memory of her children and find solace in their enduring legacy.