Murder trial of former B.C. lawyer concludes, decision to be given in Kamloops

The first-degree murder trial of Rogelio ‘Butch’ Bagabuyo, a former Kamloops lawyer, has concluded, with a verdict expected in Kamloops, where the murder took place. Bagabuyo faces accusations of killing his client, Mohd Abdullah, on March 11, 2022, amid a financial dispute regarding $780,000. Crown prosecutor Ann Katrine Saettler stated that Bagabuyo methodically planned the murder for over a week as Abdullah grew increasingly impatient about recovering his funds. In contrast, defense attorney Mark Swartz argued that Bagabuyo's actions were unexpected, asserting that it should be classified as manslaughter. The trial revealed that Abdullah hired Bagabuyo in 2016 to assist with hiding money during his separation from his wife.

Following the murder, Bagabuyo enlisted a friend to help dispose of Abdullah's remains, which were found in a tote bag. Bagabuyo was initially charged with indignity to human remains before being charged with first-degree murder more than a year later. Currently, he has been out on bail since July 12, 2023, and the B. C. Law Society has confirmed he is no longer a practicing lawyer.