A man who fatally shot his step-grandfather and then seriously injured his grandmother at their Douglas County home in 2016 was sentenced to life in prison Monday, officials said.
Patrick Canada, who was 25 years old at the time of the incident, pleaded guilty to malice murder and two counts of aggravated assault. He was granted the possibility of parole.
“The impact of this case on the victims and family members will continue on beyond this resolution. The tragedy of that day’s events has rippled through so many lives. We hope that this case finally being closed will continue to usher them through the path of healing,” Douglas District Attorney Dalia Racine said.
Canada was living temporarily with his grandmother and step-grandfather, 59-year-old Douglas Keith Henn, on Aug. 7, 2016, when an argument escalated to Canada stabbing Henn with a set of keys, Racine said. Canada then went to the basement to retrieve his rifle.
At that point, a 911 call was made and Racine said Henn locked Canada in the basement in an attempt to protect himself and his wife. Busting through the door with his rifle, Canada shot Henn five times, Racine said.
Though Henn attempted to retreat, Canada fatally shot his step-grandfather while his grandmother hid in a closet, according to Racine.
After finding her, officials said he dragged her out and shot her in the face with a handgun. Canada continued dragging her around the house and pushing her down the stairs even after seriously injuring her.
Upon Douglasville police officer Thomas Altman’s arrival at the scene, Canada fired at him, Racine said. He shot at Altman three times, with one bullet striking Altman’s gun, rendering it inoperable. Altman was forced to retreat and wait for backup.
Despite her injuries, the woman was able to escape while a standoff ensued between Canada and officers. Authorities were able to convince Canada to surrender and he was taken into custody.
“We are grateful for what can only be described as the selfless heroics of Officer Altman and the Douglasville Police Department in stopping Canada that day. The officers put themselves in grave danger and ended up saving lives, even the life of Patrick Canada,” Racine said.
Credit: Davis-Struempf Funeral Home and Crematory
Credit: Davis-Struempf Funeral Home and Crematory
A search of the residence led officers to approximately 31 shell casings from both the rifle and handgun.
During an interview with police, Canada admitted to shooting and killing his step-grandfather and assaulting his grandmother. While in the Douglas County Jail soon after his arrest, he attempted to commit suicide, but jailers were able to save him, Racine said.
At a recent plea hearing, Canada apologized for his actions, Racine said.
About the Author
