Cypress County council candidate found deceased, wife charged

“Basically shock. Why this happened, I have no idea,” said Suffield resident Keith Durose.

“I spoke to him about a week before, about the catch and release program, and some other stuff, and he seemed fine,” he said.

Over the weekend, officers appeared to be focusing on a red pickup truck parked in the driveway.

Residents on Belyea’s street declined to talk on camera but used words like “sad” and “absolutely mindblowing” to describe the situation.

Cypress County, a region where Belyea served as a councilor for six years, issued a statement. Reeve Dan Hamilton said he is incredibly shocked and saddened to hear of Belyea’s death.

“Everyone at the county will miss his kind spirit, devotion to his work, and love for the county and the community of Suffield,” Hamilton said.

The tributes continued on Facebook. Cypress County Councillor Robin Kurpjuweit said our hearts are broken and described Belyea as a kind and loving man.

“Inside of council, he was a keen listener. He was fair. He was respectful. He was Alf. He was a quiet servant of the public and the county is a better place for his efforts. Outside of council he was a friend, support, an encourager. He had a special soft spot for our children in foster care and shed many happy tears seeing them do well or join our family thru adoption,” Kurpjuweit said.

Police said Belyea’s deceased remains were found by officers. But what they aren’t disclosing yet is where they were found.

“With matters like this sometimes certain facts and information can’t be released for various reasons, and in this particular case it has not been released just yet,” said Cpl. Troy Savinkoff.

Belyea’s wife Deborah is expected to make her first court appearance on Monday, Oct. 18.

Meantime, police are wanting to speak to anyone who may have seen or interacted with Belyea up until Oct. 8.

by Tiffany Goodwein

Cypress County council candidate found deceased, wife charged

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