In 2024, Preston Whitford and his uncle entered a home in Portage la Prairie, where they fatally shot a man over a drug debt, killed the man’s girlfriend, and fled the scene. The aftermath of this tragic event in central Manitoba will have long-lasting effects, as highlighted during the sentencing of Whitford and Jeremy Whincup. The impact includes the heartache experienced by mothers who have lost their children and children who are now growing up without parents.
During the court proceedings, victim James Borden’s daughter expressed the profound loss she feels, emphasizing that her father’s absence extends far beyond his passing. Whitford, aged 31, and Whincup, aged 55, admitted their involvement in the killings of Borden, 42, and Emily Smoke, 37, on December 1, 2024, in a ruthless ambush related to a drug debt.
According to court testimonies, Whitford and Whincup operated a joint drug business in Portage la Prairie, with Borden working as a dealer under their supervision. Whitford’s defense attorney mentioned that his client’s judgment was clouded by drug use, which began in his early twenties. Whitford received a life sentence without parole for 17 years after pleading guilty to two counts of second-degree murder, while Whincup, with an extensive criminal history, was sentenced to 18 years for two counts of manslaughter.
Phone conversations between Whincup and Whitford, which took place while Whincup was in custody with Borden, revealed their animosity towards Borden due to money owed from drug sales. The calls provided crucial evidence for the police investigation into the killings of Borden and Smoke.
The court heard that Whitford shot Borden twice in a confrontation over debt before finding Smoke in a bathroom and shooting her as well. The senseless violence resulted in the loss of innocent lives, leaving families shattered and questioning the motive behind such a brutal act.
Family members of the victims shared their heart-wrenching experiences in court, expressing the profound grief and trauma they continue to endure. Despite the pain and devastation caused by these senseless killings, they find solace in knowing that justice has been served with the convictions of Whitford and Whincup. Moving forward, they hope to find healing and closure as they remember and honor their loved ones’ memories.