Calgary, AB — A family is in mourning after a woman was tragically killed by her husband just days after a tense Christmas Day altercation. The horrifying series of events unfolded on December 29, claiming the lives of 33-year-old Ania Kaminski and her father, Stanislaw Wardzala. Police believe the perpetrator, 38-year-old Benedict Kaminski, later took his own life.
Ania’s younger brother, Peter Wardzala, recounted a history of escalating conflict in the couple’s seven-year marriage, culminating in an explosive argument during Christmas dinner at their parents’ home in Kincora. The dispute began over a seemingly trivial matter—how Ania was cutting vegetables—but escalated into a confrontation that left the family deeply shaken.
Peter revealed that Benedict had exhibited controlling and critical behavior throughout their marriage. “Nothing Ania did was ever good enough,” Peter said. The situation on Christmas Day became so volatile that family members considered calling the police, though Benedict left before authorities arrived.
After the confrontation, Ania confided in her brother about her plans to leave Benedict. She was resolute, saying, “This was the final line.” Peter added that she had even considered filing for an emergency protection order.
Tragically, Ania never had the chance to act on her decision. On the evening of December 29, Peter was texting his sister, unaware it would be their final exchange. Shortly after, their mother, Alina, returned home to find her husband, Stanislaw, fatally shot. Hours later, police discovered Ania’s body at her Tuscany residence. Her three children were in the home at the time of the killing.
Benedict reportedly fled the scene with the children, later leaving them safely with relatives in Bearspaw. His body was found in a parked vehicle in Water Valley on December 30, ending a citywide manhunt.
Peter expressed heartbreak and guilt over the tragedy, lamenting that no one anticipated Benedict’s lethal actions. “I never thought he’d stoop to this level,” he said.
Ania, an elementary school teacher known for her compassion and dedication, leaves behind three children now entrusted to the care of their uncle and grandmothers. Her school community in Cochrane mourns the loss of a beloved educator who touched countless lives.
A GoFundMe campaign for the children has raised over $125,000, reflecting widespread support for the grieving family.
“She was the best mother, sister, and teacher,” Peter said. “She didn’t deserve this.”
The tragedy has left the community grappling with unimaginable loss, as the family works to rebuild their lives and provide a semblance of normalcy for the children. Autopsies for the victims are scheduled for later this week, as loved ones continue to seek answers and justice.
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