Victim identified in ongoing homicide investigation

WATCH ABOVE: A 47-year-old man is dead following a brutal assault on Monday night, the case is now being investigated as a homicide. Global’s Kimberly Tams reports.

LETHBRIDGE, Alta. – Police have now identified the victim in an ongoing homicide investigation.

47-year old Lethbridge resident Gifford George Good Dagger was found unconscious on Aug. 31 at approximately 9:30 p.m.Monday in an alley near 9 Ave. and 17 St. South.  He was suffering from severe head and internal injuries.

Results of an autopsy are not being released pending further analysis.

Police have questioned two suspects – both have been released without charges as the investigation continues.

“As a result of the victim passing away we are now treating the investigation as a murder investigation,” said Staff Sgt. Scott Woods. “We’re continuing to investigate, follow-up on leads, track down people we need to speak to and try to locate any other witnesses.”

Elaine Allen has lived near the scene since 1974.  She never felt her safety was in jeopardy – until now.  She has called police several time about suspicious behaviour at a half way house located directly behind her home.

“It makes me feel uncomfortable,” said Allen.  “It went on every day, the meeting of the boys, and you knew they were up to something.  It used to be very quiet, we never had much happen and everyone knew everyone.”

Police say initial evidence suggests this was a targeted incident where the parties involved are known to one another and there is no evidence to suggest any ongoing risk to the general public.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at 403-328-4444 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.  Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.tipsubmit.com