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Vernon Law Courts (Image Credit: Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)
By Liam Verster
Second-Degree Murder

Lumby murder case going to trial in late May

Apr 29, 2026 | 6:00 AM

The case of the alleged murder that took place in Lumby last year will be going to trial next month.

Tatjana Stefanski was reported missing from her home in Lumby on April 13, 2024, and the following day police located her body in a remote area.

Tatjana’s ex-husband, Vitali Stefanski, was located in the general vicinity of the murder scene on April 15, and was apprehended but later released on conditions.

On May 31, 2024, following further investigation by the RCMP’s Major Crime Unit, Vitali Stefanski was arrested again and charged with second-degree murder in the death of Tatjana.

The B.C. Prosecution Service said this case is proceeding with jury selection and the trial begins May 25, 2026.

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The accused had not entered any plea and counsel had not requested a psychiatric report as of time of publication.

by Liam Verster
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