Two Convicted Killers in Nature Duperron’s Death Apologize as Sentencing Concludes
The sentencing hearing has concluded for two individuals convicted in the tragic death of Nature Duperron. Having pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, Grayson Eashappie and Kala Bajusz faced the court last week in Edmonton. The incident, which occurred on April 7, 2019, involved the kidnapping, robbery, and brutal assault of the 25-year-old mother of three.
Duperron was forcibly injected with fentanyl and left to die in the woods near Hinton, where her handcuffed body was discovered on April 23, 2019. Witness Bret Desjarlais played a vital role in leading the police to the crime scene, ultimately helping to bring forth justice for Duperron and her family.
During the trial held last October, Buddy Ray Underwood and Tyra Muskego both stood accused. Underwood faced charges of second-degree murder, forcible confinement, and kidnapping, while Muskego faced charges of manslaughter, robbery, and forcible confinement. However, Justice R.A. Graesser ruled that the Crown failed to establish the planning and deliberation required for first-degree murder convictions.
The court acknowledged that although Muskego actively participated in the robbery and kidnapping, there was no evidence to suggest her direct involvement in the killing, apart from holding the victim down during the drive to Hinton.
At the recent two-day sentencing hearing for Underwood and Muskego, the court heard emotional testimony from both sides. Gladue Reports detailing the life experiences of the defendants were presented, shedding light on the deeply troubled backgrounds of both individuals.
Underwood’s defense attorney emphasized the trauma he endured during his childhood, including violence, sexual abuse, and his early involvement with methamphetamines. Meanwhile, Muskego expressed remorse through a written statement read by her lawyer. She admitted to the guilt and shame she experienced, acknowledging that she should have tried to prevent the tragedy.
Muskego, now 25 years old and the mother of a young daughter, revealed her struggle with addiction at the time of the killing and recounted the fear she felt for her life during the attack. She assured the court that she has since become sober and assumes full responsibility for her actions, expressing her heartfelt apology and hope for forgiveness.
Victim impact statements were also given by Duperron’s family members, including her sister, step-father, and mother. Duperron’s sister, Summer Uchytil, tearfully shared the pain and grief they continue to endure, bearing witness to their shattered dreams and the inconsolable loss felt by Duperron’s young children. Cheryl Uchytil, Duperron’s mother and a proud Métis woman belonging to the Bigstone Cree Nation, expressed her anguish in realizing that those responsible for her daughter’s death were also of Indigenous heritage.
As the court prepares to determine the appropriate sentences, the Crown has requested no parole eligibility for Underwood for twenty-two years, while Muskego faces a recommended fifteen-year sentence. Their attorneys have proposed parole eligibility in fifteen years for Underwood and a shorter five- to nine-year sentence for Muskego, respectively.
Justice Graesser is set to deliver the final sentencing on September 11, taking into account the various factors presented throughout the hearing.
