Full Breakdown
Trial of Janson Bryan Baker for the Murders of Bernard and Rose-Marie Saulnier
1/7/2026, 1:06:25 AM
Overview of the Case
The trial of Janson Bryan Baker, 29, commenced in Moncton, New Brunswick, on September 26, 2023, as he faces two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of Bernard Saulnier, 78, and his wife, Rose-Marie Saulnier, 74. The couple was found dead in their Dieppe home on September 7, 2019. Prosecutor Brad Burgess presented the Crown's opening statement, outlining the circumstances surrounding the murders, which are believed to be linked to a drug trafficking network involving their son, Sylvio Saulnier.
Allegations and Evidence
During the opening statement, Burgess described the Saulniers' deaths as "collateral damage" in a plot to kill their son, Sylvio, who was allegedly involved in drug trafficking. The prosecutor indicated that Baker was hired by members of the drug network, including Jesse Logue and Nicholas Bain, to kill Sylvio due to suspicions of him being a police informant. Evidence presented includes witness testimonies, recordings of jail calls, and social media messages that suggest animosity towards Sylvio.
Burgess stated that Baker allegedly broke into the Saulniers' home looking for Sylvio, who was not present. Instead, he encountered Bernard and Rose-Marie, whom he shot in their nightclothes. The prosecutor noted that both victims were shot once—Rose-Marie in the ear and Bernard through the eye. Witness Nadine Vosburgh, Sylvio's former girlfriend, is expected to testify about discovering the bodies.
Witness Testimonies and Forensic Evidence
The trial is expected to feature testimonies from several witnesses, including one who cannot be named due to a publication ban. This witness is anticipated to recount Baker's admission of shooting Rose-Marie and the psychological impact of her scream on him. Additionally, Zachery Trevors is expected to testify about accompanying Baker to the Saulniers' home and witnessing Baker's actions, including the theft of jewelry from Bernard.
Forensic evidence presented includes a fingerprint found in a Hyundai Sonata linked to Baker, as well as spent 9mm casings discovered at the crime scene. However, the murder weapon has not been recovered, with Baker allegedly claiming it was destroyed.
Context of the Drug Network
The Crown's case is rooted in the events leading up to the murders, including police raids on August 28, 2019, targeting the drug network associated with Logue. Following these raids, a rift developed between Logue and Sylvio, leading to the belief that Sylvio had betrayed the group. The prosecution argues that this betrayal motivated the plot to kill him, resulting in the tragic deaths of his parents.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The trial is expected to last for three months, with Vosburgh being the first witness to testify following the opening statements. As the proceedings unfold, the jury will hear detailed accounts of the events surrounding the Saulniers' deaths and the alleged motivations behind them. The case highlights the intersection of familial ties and the violent repercussions of involvement in criminal activities.
