Charges laid in New Westminster homicide

A New Westminster man has been charged in the death of 38-year-old Jason Collett, whose body was found Tuesday.

New Westminster Police were first called to the Last Door Recovery Society in the 1100 block of Nanaimo Street just before 5 p.m. on Tuesday. The society provides long-term residential care for men with addiction issues.

Collett worked as a crane operator during the day and was also a support worker at the facility, according to an employee.

He was also a volunteer with the Surrey Search and Rescue Society, which issued a statement Friday on Collett’s death:

Our team is in mourning for the loss of a member, Jason Collett. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and to all those who knew him. His incredible spirit and passion for helping others will always be remembered and admired. He has touched many lives and will be missed tremendously. Rest peacefully, Jason.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: Our team is in mourning for the loss of a member, Jason Collett. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and to all those who knew him. His incredible spirit and passion for helping others will always be remembered and admired. He has touched many lives and will be missed tremendously. Rest peacefully, Jason.

On Sept.17, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team located and arrested 25-year-old Steven Rogers at a residence in New Westminster in connection with Collett’s death.

Investigators say the victim and the accused were known to each other, and this homicide was not a random attack.

Rogers has been charged with second degree murder. He does not have a criminal record.

His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct.8.

~ with files from Justin McElroy