BC STORIES

Hockey World Mourns the Loss of Legendary Canucks Broadcaster John ‘Cheech’ Garrett

Legendary NHL goaltender and Vancouver Canucks broadcaster John ‘Cheech’ Garrett has died at 74. Read about his iconic career on and off the ice.

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4 months ago

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A Sudden Loss for the NHL Community

The hockey world is in mourning following the sudden passing of John Garrett, a veteran NHL goaltender and a beloved fixture of Canadian sports broadcasting for nearly four decades. Sportsnet announced Tuesday that Garrett passed away at the age of 74. While no official cause of death has been released, the news has sent shockwaves throughout the National Hockey League and among fans, particularly in Western Canada where Garrett was a household name.

From the Crease to the Commentator’s Booth

Born in Trenton, Ontario, Garrett enjoyed a successful 13-season professional playing career between 1971 and 1985. He spent time in both the WHA and the NHL, suiting up for teams including the Hartford Whalers, Quebec Nordiques, and Vancouver Canucks. Known affectionately as ‘Cheech’ due to his resemblance to comedian Cheech Marin, his most memorable on-ice moment came during the 1983 NHL All-Star Game. Representing the Canucks, Garrett was the frontrunner for the MVP award until a late four-goal surge by Wayne Gretzky shifted the honors.

Upon retiring from professional play in 1986, Garrett transitioned seamlessly into the broadcast booth. He began his media career with CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada before becoming a cornerstone of Sportsnet’s coverage. For over twenty years, he served as the color commentator for Vancouver Canucks regional broadcasts, forming an iconic partnership with play-by-play announcer John Shorthouse and host Dan Murphy.

An Enduring Legacy of Insight and Humour

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised Garrett for his ‘encyclopedic knowledge and expert insight,’ noting that his astute analysis helped bring fans closer to the game. Despite stepping away from full-time duties after the 2022-23 season, Garrett remained active in the industry, recently working on playoff assignments. His colleagues remember him not just for his professional gravitas, but for his genuine kindness and the joy he brought to every production.

Vancouver Canucks President Jim Rutherford highlighted Garrett’s deep connection to the franchise, stating that he took immense pride in sharing the game with fans. Beyond the rink, Garrett was known as a devoted family man who held a deep passion for his family, his wife Sharon, and his grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for hockey broadcasting in Canada, leaving behind a legacy of authenticity and heart that will be difficult to replace.

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BC STORIES

Discover the Hidden Beauty of New Brunswick’s Waterfalls Through Drone and On-the-Ground Video

CBC videographer Roger Cosman explores New Brunswick’s hidden waterfalls using drone and ground footage, with tours including Walton Glen Gorge Falls.

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21 hours ago

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September 5, 2026

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Exploring Provincial Waterfalls

CBC videographer Roger Cosman is traveling across New Brunswick this summer to document the province’s hundreds of natural cascades. His journey relies on drone footage and on-the-ground exploration to capture these often-secluded scenic spots.

Featured Locations and Next Destinations

Cosman’s tour has covered multiple sites, including Pabineau Falls, Sand Brook Falls, Tetagouche Falls, Lepreau Falls, Wallace Falls, Welsford Falls, Little Sheephouse Brook Falls, and Fall Brook Falls. His latest footage highlights Walton Glen Gorge Falls along the Fundy coast, with Fuller Falls scheduled as the next stop on the itinerary.

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BC STORIES

Lower Mainland Illegal Gaming Investigation Leads to Charges and Cash Seizure

Two Lower Mainland residents face criminal charges after a B.C. illegal gaming house investigation yields cash, gaming gear, and illicit tobacco seizures.

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21 hours ago

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September 5, 2026

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Joint Investigation Uncovers Multiple Gaming Locations

An enforcement operation targeting illicit gambling in the Lower Mainland has resulted in criminal charges against two individuals. On Aug. 26, the B.C. Prosecution Service approved charges following an extensive probe by the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit’s joint illegal gaming investigation team. The investigation originally launched in March 2023 at a single site before expanding into inquiries regarding several gaming operations.

Thousands in Cash and Illicit Goods Confiscated

Executing multiple search warrants across properties located in Burnaby and Vancouver, officers gathered substantial evidence. Police seized approximately $240,000 in Canadian currency, around 145 kilograms of illegal tobacco products, gaming equipment, gaming tables, and various electronics, such as tablets, mobile phones, laptops, and digital video recorders. Officials confirmed that all confiscated equipment and illicit proceeds have been forfeited to the province.

Court Appearances Pending for Accused

Facing charges under section 201(1) of the Criminal Code for keeping a common gaming house are Shahrouz Younesi, 54, of Burnaby, and Xiaoyi Karen Zhang, 46, of Vancouver. In addition to the gaming charge, Younesi is charged with selling unstamped tobacco products. Both individuals are expected to appear in court on a future date.

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BC STORIES

Police Warn Ontario Homicide Suspect Believed to Be Hiding in Remote B.C. Backcountry

First-degree murder charges issued for Joseph Madore and Brayton Kennedy in Ontario homicide. Madore is believed to be hiding in remote B.C. backcountry.

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2 days ago

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September 3, 2026

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Upgraded Charges and Active Search

Two men wanted in connection with an Ontario homicide are now facing upgraded charges of first-degree murder as they remain on the run, according to an announcement by the Ontario Provincial Police on Thursday, Sept. 3.

Joseph Madore, 34, and Brayton Kennedy, 28, both hailing from Ottawa, were previously facing second-degree murder charges. Warrants have been issued for the arrest of both men, and authorities are warning the public that they remain at large.

Potential Locations and Local Connections

Investigators believe Madore may be in British Columbia, potentially camping or travelling through remote backcountry regions. He is reported to have ties to several B.C. communities, including Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Terrace, and Richmond. Kennedy is believed to potentially be in New Brunswick.

The search has previously touched B.C. soil. Following a search of a rural property in Terrace this past June, the RCMP alongside Ontario Provincial Police confiscated two firearms connected to the investigation. Arrest warrants for Madore and Kennedy were initially granted during the same month.

Homicide Investigation Details

The investigation began after Lanark County OPP responded to an incident at Last Duel Park in Perth, Ont., at 3:15 p.m. on April 12. Officers located 34-year-old Ottawa resident Christo Allison Richards suffering from life-threatening injuries. He was taken to a trauma centre, where he later died. Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News reported that the victim was found with life-threatening wounds in Last Duel Park in Perth, Ontario.

Two additional individuals have already been charged in relation to the case. A 46-year-old Perth resident was charged with conspiracy to commit murder in May, and 32-year-old Lyna Du of Ottawa was charged with accessory after the fact to murder.

Public Safety Warning

Police advise anyone who spots either suspect not to approach them and to call 911 immediately. Anyone holding information about the whereabouts of Madore or Kennedy is urged to contact the Lanark County OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

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