PRINCE ALBERT – A man accused of killing 20-year-old Alex Darwin Whitehead on New Year’s Day was arrested Thursday and made his first court appearance Friday.
Twenty-one-year-old Richard Budd is charged with second-degree murder in Whitehead’s death.
According to Prince Albert Police, they responded to a home in the 200 block of 13 Street East shortly before 4 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2022, for a weapons call. When police arrived, they found Whitehead suffering from life-threatening injuries. He was taken to Victoria hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Budd is also charged with assault. He appears in court again on both charges May 19.
In online tributes to Whitehead, many posted that they will always remember his smile.
“Oh that smile! And Alex shared it with everyone,” said Diane Dieno, Alex’s Grade 4 teacher.
“I feel so fortunate to have had the chance to watch Alex grow over the years," added Dieno. "He was always so kind to absolutely everyone. I admired the way he made sure everybody around him, young and old, felt comfortable and accepted. He was an incredible role model, and a compassionate gentleman.
“A year or so after Alex graduated, I fondly remember running into him in the hallway of a P.A. school,” said Dieno. “He had come to watch his sister play basketball. I saw his smile coming down the hall, along with his signature big hair, and he met me with a big hug. He just had a way of making everyone feel good. My heart goes out to all of Alex’s loving and close-knit family. He's gifted you with beautiful memories, and I wish you all peace and comfort.”
Kathryn Hughes posted a tribute saying that Alex made a difference in the lives of many students and teachers while he attended Meath Park School.
“I will never forget your helpful and kind nature towards others, always ready with that wonderful smile and a laugh,” said Hughes. “You have been denied your hopes and dreams.”
