The mother of two boys from Saint John, who were tragically murdered by their father, expressed that no legal sentence can restore the loss of her beloved sons, who were the source of her greatest happiness. In a statement following the sentencing of Roman Kamyshnyy to life imprisonment without parole for 25 years, she emphasized that no courtroom proceedings can ease the profound grief she will carry forever.
Kamyshnyy, aged 46, was found guilty by a jury of two counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of his 10 and 17-year-old sons. The sentencing, as mandated by the Criminal Code, requires concurrent serving of the life sentences for each charge. Justice Darrell Stephenson, acknowledging the constraints of the law, expressed the gravity of the situation and refrained from further addressing Kamyshnyy in court.
The judge described Kamyshnyy’s actions as an act of vengeance, with jurors present during the sentencing, witnessing the culmination of the trial. Evidence presented revealed Kamyshnyy’s meticulous plan to harm his children in a gruesome manner to exact revenge on his ex-wife following their recent divorce.
The impact of the murders was profound, extending beyond the immediate family to the community of Saint John. The Crown prosecutor emphasized the enduring effects on parents, children, and law enforcement personnel, stressing the importance of valuing and protecting the well-being of all children.
Despite Kamyshnyy’s attempt to deflect blame and his lack of reaction to the sentencing, the conditions imposed include restrictions on contact with specific individuals, submission of a DNA sample, prohibition from possessing weapons, and payment of a victim fine surcharge. The possibility of an appeal was not discussed by defense counsel after the court proceedings.
Several victim impact statements were submitted, underscoring the devastating consequences of Kamyshnyy’s actions on Witness A’s family, friends, and the broader community. The mother of the slain boys, through her lawyer, expressed gratitude for the accountability brought by the sentencing and hopes that her sons will be remembered for their vibrant lives, rather than the tragic circumstances of their deaths.
The family of Witness A also shared their profound suffering and the lasting emotional scars left by the tragedy, emphasizing the importance of treasuring the joyful memories shared with the boys. The brother of Witness A described the murders as a life-altering event, leaving him with indescribable horror and perpetual anxiety about the safety of his sister.
As the community continues to grieve and rebuild, the mother of the boys expressed gratitude for the support received during this harrowing experience, emphasizing the importance of honoring her sons’ legacies and moving forward while keeping their memories alive in her heart.
