Montreal, Canada – As the second murder trial of Randy Tshilumba commenced, Crown prosecutors unveiled their intention to delve into the accused’s innermost thoughts. The case revolves around the tragic April 2016 killing of 20-year-old Clémence Beaulieu-Patry at a Maxi grocery store in Montreal’s Saint-Michel neighborhood.
While Tshilumba entered a plea of not guilty to first-degree murder, both the prosecution and defense acknowledged his involvement in the fatal stabbing of Beaulieu-Patry. The Crown’s opening statement revealed that Tshilumba had reportedly browsed news articles on murder in the aftermath of the incident.
Moreover, the prosecution disclosed plans to present evidence from the accused’s cellphone, including a note allegedly instructing him to “Invent a solid story for the police.” Eyewitnesses, among them Maxi customers and employees, are slated to testify during the proceedings, shedding light on the events leading up to the tragic death.
The emotional weight of the trial was palpable as Myriam Ben Saïd, a close friend of Beaulieu-Patry, recounted their long-standing friendship and interactions with Tshilumba. Ben Saïd recalled knowing the accused from their high school days, although their relationship remained distant. She emphasized the close bond she shared with the victim and their familiarity with Tshilumba’s circle of friends.
Following Tshilumba’s initial conviction of first-degree murder in 2017 and subsequent life sentence, a dramatic turn of events transpired when the Quebec Court of Appeal ordered a retrial in November 2022. The retrial seeks to reexamine the evidence and testimonies presented, aiming to ensure that justice is meticulously carried out in the case of Clémence Beaulieu-Patry’s untimely demise.