Dominion veteran's murder investigation active 9 years later

Nova Scotia police say progress is being made in the investigation into the murder of Harold James "Buster" Slaunwhite in Cape Breton, who was killed nine years ago today.

Family members found Slaunwhite, 82, dead in his home on Brook Street in Dominion on Sept. 10, 2006. He lived alone.

Cape Breton Regional Police and Nova Scotia RCMP said the investigation remains active, due in large part to people coming forward with tips.

In the early days of the investigation, police learned that on the day before he was found dead, Slaunwhite was seen out, driving his car. The Second World War veteran was known to be in good health.

Police have not revealed how he died.

A hangout for young people was located not far from Slaunwhite's home, police said,and several young people were persons of interest in the investigation. In 2008, a 19-year-old man was arrested and released 24 hours later without being charged.

The Slaunwhite murder is part of the Nova Scotia Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program. Awards of up to $150,000 are offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for certain unsolved crimes.

Investigators have also established a phone line dedicated to calls about the Slaunwhite murder: 902-563-5574.