In a deeply heartbreaking tragedy that has shaken both the Albanian and Canadian communities, 29-year-old Albanian mother of four, Savannah Kulla, was brutally killed by her ex-partner inside a parking lot in Brampton, Ontario.
Authorities in Canada confirmed that the suspect, 39-year-old Anthony Deschepper, fatally shot Savannah before fleeing the scene with their one-year-old daughter. The chilling crime unfolded on a quiet Tuesday afternoon and has since raised painful questions about domestic violence, obsession, and the failures to protect victims from known threats.
The Fatal Encounter in Brampton
According to Peel Regional Police, Savannah Kulla was found dead inside a parking garage of a shopping center in Brampton on Tuesday afternoon. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots before Deschepper fled the area with their toddler.
Investigators said the suspect later dropped off the one-year-old child at a relative’s home before continuing his escape. His attempt to avoid capture, however, ended just hours later when police tracked him down at a gas station in Niagara Falls, around 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning. Deschepper was shot and killed during a confrontation with Canadian law enforcement officers.
Police recovered the firearm believed to have been used in Savannah’s murder and arrested a woman who was allegedly helping the suspect evade authorities.
“If I Stay with Him, He Will Kill Me”
The most painful testimony came from Savannah’s mother, Karen Kulla, who recounted the moment police came to her home to deliver the devastating news.
“An officer came to my house and told me that my daughter had died. I don’t even remember what I did — I think I screamed. She was the youngest of my three children. I loved her so much. I can’t imagine life without her,” said Karen.
She revealed that her daughter and Deschepper had been in a relationship that ended several months ago. Despite their separation, they maintained occasional contact because of their young daughter. Savannah had agreed to meet Deschepper so he could spend a few hours with the child — a decision that tragically cost her life.
“About a month ago, she told me, ‘If I stay with him, he’s going to kill me,’” Karen recalled through tears.
According to the grieving mother, police told her that the fatal shooting occurred after an argument over a baby diaper bag.
“From what I heard, he told her: ‘I need the diaper bag.’ She said: ‘I’ll get it.’ He replied, ‘You forgot the damn diaper bag,’ and then there were three gunshots,” Karen said, her voice breaking.
A Loving Mother and Devoted Soul
Friends and relatives describe Savannah as a loving, selfless, and radiant young woman whose world revolved around her children — Joseph (6), Mathew (5), Kalem (4), and Skyla-Rose (1).
“Savannah was a beautiful soul, a devoted mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. She adored her four children; they were her pride and joy,” said one of her closest friends, who has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the children after this unimaginable loss.
“Her face would light up every time she spoke about them. She was so proud of each of her kids. Her life was taken far too soon, and now her children are left without their mother’s warmth, laughter, and love.”
The fundraiser aims to provide financial help for the children’s education, therapy, and long-term stability, ensuring they are surrounded by the care and love Savannah would have wanted for them.
Community Shock and Outcry Against Domestic Violence
The brutal murder of Savannah Kulla has sparked widespread outrage and mourning. Both the Albanian community in Canada and the wider public have expressed frustration at how such tragedies continue to occur, despite repeated warnings and signs of danger.
Domestic violence remains a devastating issue globally, often leaving victims trapped in cycles of fear and control. Experts emphasize that women who try to leave abusive relationships are at the highest risk of being killed by their partners — a tragic truth that Savannah’s story painfully illustrates.
Community organizations have urged authorities to strengthen preventive measures and provide better protection for victims who report threats from former partners.
“Savannah did everything right — she left, she protected her children, and yet she was failed by a system that should have kept her safe,” wrote one advocate on social media.
Remembering Savannah
As tributes pour in from friends, family, and strangers alike, Savannah’s story serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need to address intimate partner violence.
In the words of her mother, Karen:
“She was smart, beautiful, and loyal. We all loved her. I still can’t believe she’s gone.”
The tragedy of Savannah Kulla will not be forgotten — her name now stands as a symbol of love lost and a call for justice for every woman who lives in fear.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact your local support hotline or police authorities immediately. No one should face abuse alone — help is available.