After less than five hours of deliberations, a jury of six men and six women found Marissa Shephard guilty of first degree murder and arson with disregard for human life in the killing of 18-year old Baylee Wylie.
Judge Dionne thanks the jury. Says it is a difficult task but a necessary one in the administration of Canadian justice. Thanks the jury profusely, and dismisses them as they have now finished their duties.
— Dave Heintzman (@daveheintzman) May 8, 2018
Shephard remained stonefaced throughout the verdict, while Wylie’s aunt, mother and supporters let out gasps, and quiet sobs.
Leaving the courthouse, Shephard’s father Dave, said he was a biker, and he didn’t get rattled that easily.
Marissa Shephard’s father came out and when asked for a comment said ‘I’m a biker, I don’t get rattled that [expletive] easy.’ pic.twitter.com/cNrDgg3RS4
— Dave Heintzman (@daveheintzman) May 8, 2018
Meanwhile, Angela Wylie, Baylee’s aunt, said the family would not be speaking until they had had time to process the verdict, and late Tuesday afternoon they released a statement.
The Wylie family has now released their statement in the wake of Marissa Shephard being found guilty of first degree murder and arson. Full story here: https://t.co/bPEI7kzQpY pic.twitter.com/tolvN6Vw0c
— Dave Heintzman (@daveheintzman) May 8, 2018
Crown lead investigator Jean Belliveau also told reporters it was a long haul, and at one point 70 RCMP officers were working on the case.
He also called it a sad day for everyone.
Neither Defence nor Crown lawyers were immediately available for comment, and sentencing will take place June 22nd.
First degree murder carries an automatic life sentence, and no eligibility for parole for 25 years.
Judge Zoël Dionne said the Wylie family would have time to prepare a victim impact statement, adding he expected an afternoon would be sufficient time to take care of the sentencing.
