A British Columbia judge has sentenced Dwight Kematch to life in prison with no possibility of parole for 11 years for the 2024 second-degree murder of Alexander Lo. The sentencing took place in B.C. Supreme Court in Vancouver on Friday.
Details of the Crime
Kematch, 41, pleaded guilty in July. According to the agreed statement of facts, Kematch and Lo, 28, met through the dating app Grindr and went to Kematch’s Vancouver home after midnight on January 28, 2024. The two began engaging in sexual activity before Kematch, while intoxicated, began assaulting Lo with his fists, a hammer, and ultimately a knife.
Lo’s roommates, including his sister and brother-in-law, heard his cries for help. The assault ceased only when the brother-in-law threatened to call the police. Lo was found unconscious and could not be revived despite life-saving efforts.
Sentencing and Impact
Crown prosecutor Mark Myhre described the offense as “absolutely brutal,” noting Lo’s vulnerability as a smaller man. Myhre also pointed out that Kematch had a prior criminal record dating back to 2004, including convictions for animal cruelty and arson.
Justice F. Matthew Kirchner acknowledged the severity of the attack as “truly horrifying,” but also noted positive aspects of Kematch’s behavior while incarcerated. The judge agreed with the joint sentencing submission from Myhre and defence lawyer Jim Heller for a life sentence with a 13-year parole ineligibility, minus time already served.
The court heard victim impact statements detailing the profound grief experienced by Lo’s family. His mother, Lisa, described experiencing physical and emotional trauma, including a suicide attempt following her son’s death. Lo’s friend, Richard Hesketh, remembered him as a kind and vibrant individual who brought joy to those around him.
Looking Ahead
Kematch has been prohibited from possessing firearms and other prohibited weapons for the remainder of his life. Kai-Ji Adam Lo, who listened to the sentencing proceedings virtually from a forensic hospital, is scheduled to appear in court in February regarding the charges stemming from the alleged Lapu-Lapu Day attack. It is possible that the sentencing of Kematch could influence the legal proceedings and public perception surrounding the case involving his brother, though the two cases remain legally distinct.
Further court proceedings will determine the specifics of Kai-Ji Adam Lo’s case, and the legal process could take considerable time to unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the nature of the relationship between Kematch and Lo?
Kematch and Lo met through the dating app Grindr, according to the agreed statement of facts presented in court.
What sentence did Dwight Kematch receive?
Dwight Kematch was sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole for 11 years.
Is Kai-Ji Adam Lo still in custody?
Kai-Ji Adam Lo is currently in a forensic hospital and is scheduled to appear in court in February regarding charges related to the alleged Lapu-Lapu Day attack.
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