ERRINGTON — Police have officially confirmed the death of 47-year-old Douglas Trebble of Errington was a murder.
Trebble's body was discovered a week ago by a neighbour in his trailer in the Pine Estates trailer park on of Bowlby Road in Errington.
In a media release, Cpl. Darren Lagan, Island District RCMP media officer, stated police have evidence to suggest there was a fight in the man's trailer. They would not reveal more about that evidence.
An autopsy was conducted on July 6 by the BC Coroner Service. The preliminary findings of the autopsy have been shared with investigators, say police. A cause of death was determined, indicating Trebble was the victim of murder. Specific findings of the autopsy will not be released, according to the RCMP, "to ensure the integrity of the ongoing criminal investigation."
"Investigators are conducting a thorough criminal investigation, ensuring all evidence is gathered," stated Lagan.
The RCMP stated investigators believe this crime was targeted, and not random. Police do not believe there is any immediate risk to public safety.
A neighbour in the trailer park said he knew Trebble just to say 'hi', adding most of the residents he knew avoided Trebble because of his alleged drug use and ties to drug dealers.
"I kinda figured something like this might happen some day," said the neighbour, who did not want to be named. "There was blood all over his door."
The neighbour said few people were around on Friday, July 1, with some out to take in the Canada Day events in Parksville that night. He added there had been fights at Trebble's home in the past - including one that saw Trebble come into the neighbour's home with a broken nose.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Oceanside RCMP at 250-248-6111.