Roger Corbett, the Metchosin man killed in an altercation in Mexico, was a family man who loved his four sons, his brother says.
James Corbett, Roger’s half brother, said the family is still trying to come to grips with what happened.
“It’s a nightmare,” he said. “It’s just not fair.”
Roger’s mother is in disbelief, he said. “That’s her only son.”
Roger Corbett’s friend, Brian Slater, has been arrested in connection with the stabbing death in a home in Chicxulub Puerto, a small beach town in Yucatan state.
Corbett, 49, and another man were visiting Slater, who was in Yucatan to settle the affairs of his father, Earl Mycock. Mycock died in September of a heart attack.
Police were called to a Chicxulub Puerto home about 10 p.m. Sunday after neighbours heard yelling and calls for help, according to media reports in Mexico.
Slater, who is in his 40s, was arrested and remains in police custody. He appeared in court Wednesday, but has not been charged.
Another man was also arrested. He was released without charge.
Corbett’s eldest son is en route to Mexico to identify the body. James Corbett said authorities have told the family that his brother’s remains can’t be repatriated until after the court proceedings.
He said his brother put on a tough exterior but was “really a good-spirited man.”
“He loved animals and he loved kids and he loved people,” James Corbett said. “I’ve got a two-year-old son, and he just loved him.”
Roger Corbett has four sons: Daniel, Byron, Andrew and Chuck.
“His kids are his world,” James Corbett said. “He had a heart as big as they come.”
Roger Corbett ran a Metchosin company called Corbett’s Painting.
His son Daniel wrote on Facebook: “You taught me everything you needed to teach in this lifetime. I will carry you through my heart and soul, trusting that you will continue to guide me and my three dearest brothers. Your truth lives on through your children, siblings, lovers and friends.”
Global Affairs Canada said Slater, his family and Corbett’s family are receiving consular services.
“Consular officials are in contact with local authorities to gather additional information,” Global Affairs Canada said in a statement.
Slater’s wife, who did not want to be named, told the Times Colonist she talked to him by phone on Wednesday.
She said he has been given legal representation.
“His rights have been respected, and we’re just going minute by minute right now,” she said. “There’s a great community of non-profit organizations that are taking care of him. He’s fed and clothed.”
