South Osborne homicide victim ID'd
A man found dead inside an apartment building in Winnipeg's South Osborne neighbourhood has been identified as Sheldon Kostenko.
The 33-year-old was found on Dec. 3 at about 4 a.m. in the building, which was undergoing renovations, at the corner of Osborne Street and Morley Avenue.
Police released his name on Monday but haven't released much else about the incident, other than to say he died as a result of upper body injuries.
However, CBC News learned late on Monday that Kostenko was stabbed to death.
Kostenko's death is Winnipeg's 37th homicide of the year.
Police spokesman Const. Robert Carver said the phone call that directed them to the building could be a big part of the investigation.
"That may end up playing a key role [but] I am not going to be able to talk about the nature of what led us to that. I'll tell you a phone call led us to it but that's all I am going to say," he said.
Police have interviewed some individuals but no arrests have been made.
Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 204-986-6508 or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS (8477).
Statement from family
The family of Sheldon Kostenko (born in Winnipeg on March 2, 1978) are saddened to learn of the sudden death of their beloved son, brother and uncle this past Saturday December 3, [2011].
Sheldon is survived by his mother (Louise), father (Nick), twin sister (Sandra) and niece (Jaden), and extended family members who share their grief.
The family is currently unaware of details pertaining to Sheldon’s tragic death, other than the news announcement released by the Winnipeg Police Department.
Sheldon will be remembered as a caring, generous young man who loved life, family and friends. He was an avid sports and fitness enthusiast, and for the past several years has worked as a supported living counsellor for people with disabilities.
A private family service will held in coming days, and family members wish to extend their appreciation to those who have extended condolences at this difficult time.