The man who allegedly murdered his girlfriend and her father on New Year’s Eve in Halifax, was also wanted for a 2019 shooting at a bar in Toronto.

Matthew Costain, 39, is now the main suspect in a double homicide.

Cora-Lee Smith, 40, and Bradford Downey, 73 were killed in the shootings that happened on Gottingen Street just before midnight, December 31.

It’s believed Costain then took his own life a few hours later.

According to investigators, the crimes were a result of intimate partner violence.

Police say, Costain was also wanted for more recent offences in Ontario from 2020 and 2021.

Non-profit standing in solidarity

The Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia says they are standing in solidarity with the victims.

The organization provides support for marginalized groups.

In a post on social media, they acknowledge this marks the fourth incident of death due to intimate partner violence in just a few months in Nova Scotia and are “devastated by these acts of violence.”

They say their hearts are with the loved ones of the victims.

Night of Caring

For community members impacted by the tragedy, there is an opportunity to get some support.

A Night of Caring will be at the Rec Centre in North Preston, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Monday.

Mental health professionals are slated to be on hand to help with grief and trauma, as well as community volunteers.