To the citizens of Fredericton,
Over the past few days, there has been some media criticism regarding the information we have shared into the murder investigation of two of our citizens and two of our police officers.
We have been accused of being “tight-lipped” and not providing certain details of the ongoing investigation.
In some ways, that’s true and it’s important that you know why.
This is an active investigation. It is not yet complete. As with any criminal investigation, we cannot make assumptions or let rumours and speculation direct us. We must deal with facts and evidence. This protects the integrity of the investigation and it protects the upcoming court case. As citizens you would expect nothing less from your police force and as Chief it's my job to ensure that is happening.
There’s also another reason. Some things we simply don’t know yet and that’s why the investigation is still continuing.
We want all the answers to this as well. The questions being raised are the same questions the investigators are seeking answers to.
Four of our citizens had their lives taken from them. They all have families and friends who loved and cared for them. We all want to make sense of this. As your police force, I assure you we are going to get those answers but we need to do it right. Doing it right means being patient and being thorough so that all investigative possibilities are looked at.
I along with all members of the Fredericton Police Force have been overwhelmed by your kindness and support. The gifts laid in front of our police station, the hugs on the street, the messages from around the world and thousands of you gathering together last night to join hands and hearts through our city. We see your caring and we feel it. Thank you. Together, we truly are Fredericton Strong.
Chief Leanne Fitch
Fredericton Police Force