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Hopedale man charged with first degree murder and attempted murder, say RCMP

The RCMP have charged 27-year-old Michael Tuglavina, of Hopedale N.L., with first degree murder and attempted murder, after responding to a complaint of assault on May 16. Tuglavina was charged on May 17 after an investigation was conducted.

Charge comes after investigation into an assault that took place on May 16

A close-up of the side of an RCMP vehicle.
The RCMP have charged 27-year-old Michael Tuglavina, of Hopedale N.L., with first degree murder and attempted murder, after responding to a complaint of assault on May 16. (David Bell/CBC)

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police say they have made an arrest in a homicide case, charging Michael Tuglavina, 27, with first-degree murder and attempted murder.

On Friday, police responded to an urgent complaint of assault in a Hopedale residence. In a statement, the RCMP wrote that police arrived to find a deceased male inside the home "with injuries indicative of foul play, and a second victim nearby who had sustained serious injuries."

They then started a brief shelter in place order in the community, and quickly identified the suspect. The RCMP say they arrested him shortly after. 

The RCMP Major Crime Unit conducted an investigation and charged Tuglavina on Saturday. He now remains in custody. 

Tuglavina and the victims were known to each other, so the RCMP say there is currently no risk to the public's safety. 

However, they said residents can expect an increased police presence in the community for the next few days, as police officers continue their investigation. 

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is getting involved as the investigation continues. 

In a statement, the RCMP extended their condolences to the family and friends of the victim. 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Abby Cole is a journalist with CBC News in St. John's. She can be reached at abby.cole@cbc.ca.