Police charge man in relation to Cranston homicide

The Calgary Police Service has laid first-degree murder charges in relation to a suspicious death in Cranston that occurred in late-January.

At approximately 2 p.m., on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2016, police were asked to check on the welfare of a person at a residence in the 200 block of Cramond Close S.E. When officers did not get an answer at the door of the house, they forced their way inside and found the woman deceased.

The woman was identified by the Office of the Medical Examiner as Cindy ENGER, 51, of Calgary, and her death was deemed suspicious. She died as a result of being shot. Further investigation by the Calgary Police Service Homicide Unit determined that the death was a homicide.

On Friday, March 4, 2016, police took a man into custody as part of their investigation and the following day executed related search warrants in Airdrie and Carstairs.

Joseph D’Arcy SCHLUTER, 45, of Carstairs, AB, is charged with one count of first-degree murder in connection with this case. He is scheduled to appear in court today.

Police do not believe ENGER’s death was random as the accused and ENGER knew each other well. However, motive will not be released as it forms part of the evidence that will be presented in court.

Investigators continue to ask anyone who had contact with Cindy ENGER in the two months leading up to her death to contact police, if they have not already done so. Investigators would like to confirm the events leading up to her death, however are not seeking any other suspects.

Anyone with information can call the Calgary Police Service non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or the Homicide Unit Tip Line at 403-428-8877. Tips can also be left anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers using any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org
TEXT: tttTIPS to 274637

Case #16034944/3828