The family of a young woman who was killed last week while walking home from work in Longueuil says they’re frustrated no one has been charged.
Jenique Dalcourt, 23, was attacked on a dark bike path on the south shore. She died in hospital.
Police arrested a suspect Saturday, but the crown prosecutor said Monday it didn't have enough evidence to press charges.
The 26-year-old man was released Monday evening without being charged.
Dalcourt's father and brother from New York say the police aren't keeping them informed.
“There's a lot of frustration. We had it in our heads, especially when we were told there's an indictment happening on Monday, that by Thursday we'd be able to sort of get some closure, which would be a step in the right direction for our grieving process,” said Nick Gandalfo, Dalcourt’s brother.
In a communique, Longueuil police say they've been in touch daily with Dalcourt's mother, have assigned an English-speaking officer to communicate with her father, and even met the family at the home where Dalcourt’s funeral was held Thursday.
Her father, John Gandalfo, says he and his son are getting ready to go back to New York and they would have liked to see the accused killer arraigned before they left.
“I understand there's evidence they can't disclose but we're parents, parents and family. We love our Jenique and we want some answers,” he said.
Dalcourt’s family chose a tranquil spot on the South Shore to hold her funeral.
Sabine Boisvert-Garceau came out to say goodbye to Dalcourt, her best friend in high school.
“We were very (close). She once told me she wanted to be a singer and we were always singing together,” she said before dissolving into tears.
Two men who also lost their daughters – both named Julie – to violence were also on hand to offer their support.
“I know they need people that can share with them such pain, but it’s possible after the death of a loved one that we can regain power in our lives,” said Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu, Canadian Senator and founder of the murdered or missing persons families association.
Michel Surprenant, whose daughter Julie disappeared in 1999, says he knows it is tough for the family to wait for news about an arrest.
“When you know how the system (works) it's okay - because they are waiting to have more evidence to have the right accusation. Because if they fail, they can’t come back and accuse again,” he said.
Police say they are keep tabs on the suspect and are waiting for the results of DNA tests.