The mother of a Calgary murder suspect who was shot dead by U.S. border officials near the B.C. border is speaking out, saying her son was ‘lost and confused’ and was battling mental illness.
Jamison Childress, 20, was considered to be the main suspect in the murder of 18-year-old Brando Walker, whose body was found near the Elbow River on the Tsuu T’ina First Nation earlier this month.
Childress made his way across the border from B.C. into Washington state, drawing the attention of border authorities.
He allegedly sprayed American authorities with some sort of chemical irritant in an attempt to escape, but was then shot and killed during the confrontation
RCMP was attempting to secure a warrant for his arrest in connection with the Walker murder.
Nicole Smith, Childress’ mother says her son was a happy child, but his life took a dramatic turn years ago.
He was diagnosed with mental illness and suffered through bouts of depression and multiple suicide attempts before eventually turning to drugs.
“He was lost and confused,” Smith told CTV BC. “He was hurting within himself and he couldn’t figure out a way to make himself feel better.”
Smith also offered a heartfelt apology to the family of Brando Walker.
Three others have been charged in connection with Walker’s death.
Dylan Cameron, 20, charged with manslaughter, appeared in court on Monday.
Chad Gosselin, 21, has been charged with accessory to murder.
A 15-year-old boy is expected to appear in court on Tuesday on a charge of second degree murder.
