'So much life left to live': Slaying of 16-year-old in Abbeydale remains under investigation
Following his death, which police have deemed to be a homicide, Calgary Search and Rescue teams have been combing through the community in search of evidence linked to his killing.
Around 1:20 a.m. on Friday, Calgary police responded to an incident along the 300 block of Abergale Drive N.E.
Upon their arrival, officers located a deceased teenage male who was later identified as Carter Spivak-Villeneuve.
As of Saturday afternoon, acting Staff Sgt. Derek MacNaughton of the Calgary police operations intelligence group said the investigation is still in its early stages.
'There's no threat to the public, most of the police have left the area, and more updates will come through our media and (public affairs) sections,' he said.
Abbeydale residents spoke with Postmedia about the homicide but wanted to remain anonymous in the event the incident was gang-related.
'It's just sad,' one resident said. 'I was born and raised in this community, and I've watched it over the years … but it's sad that someone passed away.'
A homeowner in the area where the incident took place said he was out of town when it happened.
Upon his return, he was approached by Calgary police for footage from his cameras.
'My grandson said (the victim) was actually in our house when they were younger,' said the homeowner. 'He said he hasn't seen him in three years, and I think he said he lived here in Abbeydale.'
On Friday, another neighbour told Postmedia that she heard three gunshots sometime after midnight.
An online fundraiser has been started by friends on behalf of the victim's family to support them following the loss of their son, with a goal of raising $22,000.
'Carter was more than just a teenager — he was a son, a brother, a nephew, a cousin, a friend and grandchild and a light to everyone who knew him,' said a written appeal on the fundraising page. 'Carter had so much life left to live and love left to give.'
At this point, members of the family were not ready to make any public comment.
'What I can say is that the parents are trying to take this time to navigate this difficult loss,' said one of the organizers of the fundraiser. 'Carter was a sweet boy who just wanted to be loved by everyone.'
After enough money has been raised, a private service will be held for Spivak-Villeneuve, the organizer said.
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