‘Our world crumbled’: Victoria Beach double-homicide victim’s family devastated

A family whose “world crumbled” last week is devastated after a 41-year-old mother of four was shot and killed in a double homicide in the RM of Victoria Beach.

Melissa Julie Wilson, 41, and a 29-year-old man were shot and killed early Friday at a property near Sandy Bay, north of Victoria Beach, about 100 kilometres north of Winnipeg. Police have not made any arrests.

“Last Friday, our world crumbled when our dear Melissa was suddenly taken from us,” wrote Wilson’s godmother Karen Stuart, who has organized a fundraiser.

“Her children, grandchildren and other family members are now left to pick up the pieces. In the wake of her loss, our family is navigating emotional and financial challenges.”

Wilson is being remembered as “adventurous, curious, outgoing, kind, a great friend to many, and a fantastic cook.”

“She loved the foraging, sailing, fishing and camping, spending every moment she could outdoors,” the crowdfunding post said. “She was an amazing photographer and the most amazing artist.

“Melissa touched so many lives. Growing up she modelled, was in school plays, designed a mural for her school, and was a very active member of Girl Guides. She loved all of these activities and all the people that she came in contact with were embraced by her warm heart and her wonderful smile. Most recently, she drove a school bus and worked as an assistant caregiver.”

In a Facebook post, Wilson’s aunt, Windi Scott, described Victoria Beach as “one of the most beautiful places I know. It’s not a dangerous place.”

“My precious niece’s life was stolen in a random act of violence,” she wrote on Sunday. “Anyone who knew her will know the true meaning of this loss. May you continue to enjoy the rare beauty of the beaches this summer and for years to come. And remember a beautiful mom and her family, if you will.”

Wilson’s daughter, Taylor Marie Friesen, also shared a tribute online.

“I love you mom, I’m so sorry,” she wrote.

The GoFundMe page said Wilson adored her four children, doted on her three grandchildren, had a loving relationship with her father and stepmother and was best friends with her two sisters.

“I was fortunate that she considered me her second Mom,” Stuart wrote.

She declined to speak to the Free Press Wednesday, saying that the family is asking for privacy.

RCMP have not identified the second homicide victim and won’t unless there’s “an investigational need to do so” or the family requests that the name be released. A spokesperson said the investigation is ongoing and updates will be released as they become available.

scott.billeck@freepress.mb.ca