A Cape Breton man who spoke out about his fears for his safety after witnessing the murder of his friend says now things have only gotten worse.
Earlier this week, Norman MacIntyre went public, calling on police to protect him and saying people have been coming to his home with weapons since he witnessed the murder of 24-year-old Brandon Kelly in Reserve Mines.
On Thursday, MacIntyre said after he shared his story in the media he was approached by two men in a car.
“’The cops aren't protecting you, so what do you expect, the reporters to protect you?” MacIntyre said. “They said you're going to die no matter who you go to.”
MacIntyre’s wife Karen Bona says they’ve both been on edge since the shooting last month.
“We heard a bang yesterday. Both of us jumped. Like, I'm getting jumpy myself,” she said.
Brandon Berthiaume is facing a charge of first-degree murder in Kelly’s death.
MacIntyre says police promised to protect him after the shooting, but it’s a pledge he says they are not living up to.
The Crown attorney in the case says he’s aware of the situation.
“Matters of his security are a police matter and certainly from the Crown’s point of view we would be willing to consult with police on legal matters, upon request,” said Senior Crown attorney Andre Arsenault.
Cape Breton Regional Police said Thursday they can’t comment on MacIntyre’s case, but did say they will take the appropriate action if they feel a life is in danger.
“What happens is that the assessment takes place and depending on the value of that assessment and if the value gets anywhere near lethality or high-risk circumstances, police agencies will take the appropriate actions,” said Staff Sgt. Ken O’Neil.
MacIntyre, for his part, says the risk is there, and what he wants is clear.
“I want them to put me somewhere away to protect me, is what I want.”
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Kyle Moore
