Man who killed girlfriend and her father on New Year’s Eve was wanted for nightclub shooting

The tragic events that unfolded on New Year’s Eve in Halifax, resulting in the deaths of a young woman and her father at the hands of her boyfriend, have brought to light a disturbing history of violence and criminal activity. Matthew Costain, the 39-year-old perpetrator of the double homicide, was not only wanted by Halifax Regional Police but also had an outstanding arrest warrant in Ontario for firearm offences dating back to a nightclub shooting in 2019.

According to reports from Toronto Police, Costain was involved in a shooting at a crowded nightclub in North York in August 2019. The incident left five victims, including one in critical condition and four others with non-life-threatening injuries. This was not Costain’s first run-in with the law, as he had a lengthy criminal record in Ontario, including convictions for armed robbery and firearms offences that resulted in jail time.

In 2014, Costain was sentenced to nearly six years for firearms offences, during which time he faced additional charges for assaulting fellow inmates. Court records also revealed a history of domestic violence, with Costain having physically abused a former partner in the past. A 2014 sentencing decision noted that he struggled with a serious drug addiction, using crack cocaine on a daily basis.

The victims of Costain’s final violent act were identified as Cora-Lee Smith, 40, and her father Bradford Downey, 73. The community of North Preston is mourning their loss and grappling with the devastating impact of intimate partner violence. This tragedy marks another instance of domestic homicide in Nova Scotia, highlighting the urgent need for resources and support for those affected by family or intimate partner violence.

As the community comes together to grieve and seek healing, it is essential to recognize the warning signs of domestic violence and know where to turn for help. Crisis lines and local support services are available for those in need, and anyone in immediate danger should not hesitate to call 911. It is crucial to address the root causes of violence and work towards creating safer, healthier communities for all.