A Winnipeg jury has found Kyllan Ellis guilty of second-degree murder in the death of Simone Sanderson.
The 23-year-old’s body was found in a vacant lot in Winnipeg’s North End on Sept. 2, 2012.
She was last seen walking in the area on Aug. 26.
Ellis plead not guilty.
The jury deliberated for approximately eight hours before reaching a verdict.
Outside the courthouse, Sanderson’s family hugged and spoke briefly.
Sanderson’s grandmother Betty-Ann Sanderson was in court every day during the trial.
At the beginning of the trial she called her granddaughter a ‘fighter.’
The family has asked for privacy at this time.
Michael Hutchinson, a representative from Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, addressed media on behalf of the family.
“The family is very brave, and at this moment need time to recuperate,” said Hutchinson.
He said the family will release a statement at a later date.
A sentencing date will be determined later this week.
Crown said the Sanderson family plans to put forth victim impact statements.
Ellis’ family also plans to speak.
Sanderson’s death was considered a cold case until 2014.
Winnipeg Police received some information which pointed them toward Ellis.
Police arrested and charged Ellis in 2016.
My hope/desire is grandma can get some closure and peace, she has suffered so much pain…crying and in distress..I love my Cousin Betty and always worried about her..She truly loves all of her children…Never once gave up..<3
My hope/desire is grandma can get some closure and peace, she has suffered so much pain…crying and in distress..I love my Cousin Betty and always worried about her..She truly loves all of her children…Never once gave up..<3
justice served
justice served
Good good they caught the murderer.
Good good they caught the murderer.
Now if she was white…..
Now if she was white…..