McCann family renews call for answers ahead of Travis Vader parole hearing

Nearly 15 years after Lyle and Marie McCann disappeared, Bret McCann tries not to dwell on the unimaginable fate that befell his parents. Following a lengthy legal battle, Travis Vader was ultimately sentenced to life in prison for manslaughter in 2017 for the murder of the St. Albert, Alta., couple. Despite the closure that came with Vader’s conviction, McCann and his family continue to grapple with the painful reality of their loss.

In a recent interview, McCann revealed the lingering trauma he experiences, recounting a recurring nightmare that haunts him. He envisions a scenario where one of his parents was killed in front of the other, a thought that is particularly distressing considering the close bond they shared. The uncertainty surrounding the details of their deaths only adds to the family’s anguish.

Vader’s sentence included seven years of parole ineligibility, with a parole board hearing set for Thursday to determine his eligibility for day parole. McCann, together with his wife, now divides their time between Canada and Australia, where their daughter is raising their two young granddaughters. Shielding the children from the grim truth behind their great-grandparents’ disappearance remains a top priority for the family.

McCann intends to deliver a victim impact statement at the upcoming parole board hearing, emphasizing the importance of Vader taking responsibility for his actions. He stresses the significance of Vader admitting his guilt and revealing the whereabouts of his parents’ remains, a crucial step in the healing process for the McCann family.

The case of the McCanns’ murders has been marked by numerous twists and turns, becoming one of Alberta’s most high-profile criminal investigations. Vader’s legal journey was fraught with complexities, including a stay of proceedings in 2014 and a subsequent retrial in 2016 that ultimately led to his manslaughter conviction.

Defense lawyer Brian Beresh, who represented Vader during the trial, reflects on the extensive evidence gathered throughout the case, noting the lack of a clear narrative to support any specific theory. Despite Vader’s conviction, doubts linger about the events that transpired, leaving Beresh with lingering uncertainties.

In the aftermath of Vader’s sentencing, where he maintained his innocence, McCann remains steadfast in his belief that Vader must acknowledge his guilt before being considered for release. While open to the idea of rehabilitation, McCann insists that accountability is paramount for Vader’s potential reintegration into society.

The McCann family’s enduring quest for closure and justice serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of their tragic loss. As they navigate the complexities of grief and legal proceedings, their unwavering determination to honor the memory of Lyle and Marie McCann remains a testament to their resilience and strength.