CALGARY – Two women found dead in a Coventry Hills home Monday morning were identified Thursday, and police said a person of interest was in custody.
Calgary residents Selamawit Alem, 54, and Julie Tran, 25, were stabbed to death, according to police.
Global News had previously identified Alem as the homeowner, who worked as a caregiver for mental health patients.
“The victim, Alem, worked as a caregiver for Julie Tran and a second individual,” said Staff Sgt. Doug Andrus. “They were both residents of that address.”
Andrus said police don’t believe the second patient was home at the time of the attack. A source told Global News he’s believed to be in his 40s.
“He has been interviewed; obviously he’s quite distraught for what’s happened. He’s in a safe location.”
Global News spoke with Alem in 2006, following the death of her 18-year-old son. Michael Kahsai’s body was found in a Forest Lawn basement in October 2005. He had been bludgeoned to death with a meat cleaver. Alem was disappointed the man convicted of manslaughter in the death would serve only seven years behind bars. Police said Thursday there was nothing to indicate her death was related to that incident.
Police believe at least one of the victims knew the attacker, and continue to investigate. Andrus said the person of interest has been interviewed and is in custody on unrelated matters.
Anyone with information is asked to call 403-266-1234 or the Homicide Unit Tip Line at 403-428-8877. Tips can also be left anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
With files from Global News
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