Families mourn two slain 20-year-olds
Bodies of men shot to death discovered in vehicle parked on street in Marlborough
Two men found shot to death in northeast Calgary on Tuesday have been identified as Kuanyliet Kogalt and Garang Deng (Cody) Akoar, both 20, as the hunt for their killer continues.
The Calgary police homicide unit is investigating after the bodies were found in a running vehicle in Marlborough. Police were called to the 1000 block of Marcombe Drive N.E. around 9:20 a.m. on Tuesday for reports of a suspicious vehicle that was left running on the street.
Police believe the shootings were targeted. The vehicle had been parked on the street since Monday evening, according to police, who believe Kogalt and Akoar were shot to death between 9 and 9:30 p.m.
The two men, members of the city's South Sudanese community, played basketball together at Father Lacombe High School.
Family members say Kogalt, known as Kuan to his friends, was a talented basketball player who loved music and spending time with family, including his young son.
“He was a happy and positive person who always carried a smile on his face everywhere he went,” reads a Gofundme page created in his name. “The spirit he carried uplifted all those who surrounded him, and we hope all who were blessed to have known him will continue to do the same.”
Kogalt is survived by his parents and nine siblings.
“I lost my brother/ best friend 2 days ago. A heartbreak I don't think I'll ever heal from,” his sister, Aylo, posted Thursday on Twitter.
Family and friends are also working to raise funds to offset funeral costs for Akoar, who is survived by his parents and six siblings.
“His personable, silly characteristics were always sure to make his family and friends laugh in all moments,” reads an online tribute.
No suspects are in custody. Police ask anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
Anyone in the area of Marcombe Drive N.E., between 9 and 9:30 p.m. on Monday, including taxis and other vehicles that may have dashcam footage, is asked to contact the homicide tip line at 403-428-8877, the Calgary police non-emergency line at 403-2661234, or leave anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 or www.calgarycrimestoppers.org.