Sign up for the paNOW newsletter

Saskatoon woman’s death considered a homicide

Mar 27, 2015 | 8:07 AM

Saskatoon police are now investigating a young woman’s death as a homicide.

Officers are trying to identify suspects in connection to 18-year-old Brittney Gargol’s death. Police say an autopsy has been conducted but the results are not yet being released.

Facebook played a big role in identifying her after a passerby found her injured Wednesday morning on Cedar Villa Estates Road near Valley Road southwest of Saskatoon. Police released photos of her distinctive clothing and tattoos and within hours people had reached out to police to let them know who Gargol was.

Facebook is now where friends are leaving final messages to Gargol.

One tribute reads, “Hoping this was just a bad dream. Words cannot describe what I am feeling right now.”

Another, “This morning, heaven took another angel away from the earth. I just can’t believe it was you. I don’t want to believe it.”

“I wish she didn’t go the way she did, I wish I had a chance to say goodbye. I’d never wish this on anyone.”

Gargol is described by friends as being full of hopes and dreams, having a beautiful soul and always being ready to take on the day.

Julianne Alm knows Gargol’s family and said when she heard what happened, she wanted to help by starting an online fundraising campaign to pay for funeral expenses. 

“It struck a heartstring with me as a parent. I put myself in their position and I thought, ‘Wow, what they are going through is heartbreaking,’” Alm said.

Alm said Gargol is the oldest of four girls and Gargol’s dad, who Alm’s brother works with, is having a very difficult time. Alm hopes to ease the financial burden on the family.

“I can’t imagine having to deal with anything financial at this point in the game when they should be able to just take time to grieve,” Alm said.

Her goal is to raise at least $5,000, which she plans to personally deliver to the family with a card letting them know people are thinking about them.

Gargol was attending school while working part-time at the Saskatoon German Cultural Centre and Vern’s Pizza.

-With files from News Talk Radio’s Trelle Kolojay

news@panow.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow