Tomkins Park homicide victim, suspect identified; police continue to investigate

Police said it’s 67-year-old Howard Gordon Hunter who died at Tomkins Park on Saturday evening. (Courtesy: Jim Wells/Postmedia)

The victim of a homicide along Calgary’s 17th Avenue S.W. over the weekend has been identified.

Police said it’s 67-year-old Howard Gordon Hunter who died at Tomkins Park on Saturday evening.

He was found “in medical distress” when officers arrived to the small green space in the 800 block of 17th Avenue S.W. just after 5 p.m.

“Despite life-saving efforts,” police said Hunter was “declared deceased on scene.”

After the incident, police said 68-year-old Danny James Turkitch was arrested and charged with manslaughter.

He’s scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.

Investigation into Hunter’s death continues, and police are tapping members of the public for any information they can provide.

Anyone who has relevant information is asked to call police at 403-266-1234.

Those who would prefer to remain anonymous can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Remembered as ‘one of a kind’

Monday at Tomkins Park, a memorial began to form as people left flowers and signs in honour of Hunter.

On social media as well, messages of remembrance for Hunter popped up.

“Rest in peace, my friend. I will miss your aggressive love and ambush greetings. Man, could you ever make me feel,” wrote Harold Pendergast on Facebook.

Jordan Forester responded on Facebook, calling Hunter “a true friend with a big heart.”

“Quick-witted, razor-sharp intellect and a real enigma,” wrote Forester.

“You were one of a kind. I’ll hold my memories of you close to heart. Rest in peace, my friend.”