North Okanagan man guilty of murdering ex-wife
Vitali Stefanski faces life in prison after jury finds him guilty of second-degree murder in death of Tatjana Stefanski.
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A North Okanagan jury has found Vitali Stefanski guilty of second-degree murder in the death of his ex-wife, Tatjana Stefanski, more than two years after her body was discovered.
Tatjana's body was found down a steep embankment off Mabel Lake Road, a rural logging road outside Lumby, on April 14, 2024. Vitali was charged with her murder in May that year. He pleaded not guilty to the charge last month.
The month-long trial in B.C. Supreme Court in Kamloops included graphic autopsy photos, intense cross-examination of the accused, and dramatic closing arguments. Vitali dismissed his lawyer during the final week of the trial and represented himself, delivering what the court described as scattered and at times contradictory statements about Tatjana's final moments.
With the guilty verdict, Vitali Stefanski now faces life in prison. Justice Brad Smith will determine his eligibility for parole.
If you or someone you know has experienced domestic violence, Archway Society for Domestic Peace operates a 24-hour helpline at 250-542-1122.
