Suspect charged with manslaughter in fatal stabbing of 41-year-old Abbotsford man: IHIT

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At the time of the incident, a man was taken into custody and subsequently released as the investigation commenced. IHIT assumed conduct of the investigation and continued to work in partnership with the Abbotsford Police Major Crimes Unit (MCU), Forensic Identification Services (FIS) and the BC Coroners Service to advance the investigation.

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Suspect charged with manslaughter in fatal stabbing of 41-year-old Abbotsford man: IHIT

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Sgt. Fong says IHIT investigators meticulously followed the evidence trail and after a thorough, diligent examination of the scene and forensic findings, were able to determine the circumstances surrounding the stabbing.

On Saturday, June 6, 2026, the B.C. Prosecution Service approved one count of manslaughter against 36-year-old Jesse Chamberlain-Lohr of Abbotsford for the homicide of Harvey James Lee-Bernick. Chamberlain-Lohr is in custody, and his next court appearance is on June 15, 2026.

Investigators believe this was a targeted and isolated incident involving parties who were known to each other. There is no ongoing risk to the public. 

“IHIT investigators worked tirelessly to determine the exact role and involvement of a number of individuals who were identified at the outset,” said Sgt. Fong. “The laying of a charge is a significant step, and our thoughts are with Mr. Bernick’s loved ones as the court proceedings begin.”

The family of Harvey James Lee-Bernick released a statement in connection with the manslaughter charge.

“He is deeply missed and was loved by so many people whose lives he touched. His death has had an immense impact on our family, leaving a loss from which we will never fully recover. We remain hopeful that justice will be served,” the family said.