Alberta man gets two years for role in homicide

46 year old driver of getaway vehicle will be the only person to serve time in case

A central Alberta man who drove the getaway vehicle in an Eckville-area homicide 12 years ago has been sentenced to two years in jail.

Shayne Gulka, who is 46, had pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to murder.

He was originally charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping with a handgun in the death of Bradley Webber.

Webber was gunned down inside his RV in 2006 by members of a gang who wanted to take over his drug operation.

Kevin Brown was charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping but died in March without ever appearing in court.

The other man, known as A.B., was granted immunity in the case.

Prior to sentencing, Webber’s daughter tearfully read a victim impact statement in Red Deer court.

Tori Webber said that the loss of her father has created a huge void in her life and has since led to struggles with depression, two suicide attempts and substance abuse.

“My pain and suffering will last indefinitely,” she said Friday.

Gulka read a short letter in court expressing his regrets to Webber’s family.

“I just want to say I’m sorry,” he said in a trembling voice.

Outside court, defence lawyer Michael Scrase said it is unfortunate that Gulka will be the only person to serve jail time for Webber’s murder.

“Mr. Gulka would have liked to have had his trial on this,” Scrase said.

“He would have liked the public to know all the facts but I can’t think of any specific lessons that really are learned in this other than being involved in the drug scene is a tough way to live your life.”