Two men charged in 2022 Maple Ridge homicide after nearly four-year investigation
Two Maple Ridge men are facing charges in connection with the 2022 fatal shooting of Cory William Thomas, in what investigators have previously described as a targeted killing linked to the local drug trade.
An April 13 release from the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), states 26-year-old Richard Angelo Pignatelli was arrested on March 27, 2026. The following day, the B.C. Prosecution Service approved charges of manslaughter with a firearm and break and enter of a dwelling house.
A second suspect, 27-year-old Kyle Raymond Edlund, has been charged with second-degree murder with a firearm, break and enter of a dwelling house, and possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm. IHIT said Edlund was arrested on April 11 and remains in custody pending his next court appearance.
The charges stem from a shooting on August 12, 2022, when Ridge Meadows RCMP were called to a residence in the 11900-block of 216 St at around noon. Officers found a man suffering from gunshot wounds, who died at the scene.
The victim was later identified as 33-year-old Cory William Thomas. At the time, IHIT said the homicide appeared to be targeted and connected to the local drug trade.
IHIT led the investigation with support from Ridge Meadows RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Service and the BC Coroners Service.
Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT said the charges mark a significant development following years of investigative work.
“The charges laid reflect years of hard work and evidence gathering, underscoring the dedication of IHIT investigators throughout this case,” Fong said in the release. “Achieving charge approval is a significant milestone as this case moves forward.”
IHIT said no further details will be released as the matter is now before the courts.
Edlund has three illegal firearm charges stemming from an arrest in 2020; while Pignatelli has a firearm charge from a 2022 arrest.
