Thirty-five-year-old Melissa Chaboyer worked as a taxi driver in the quiet city of Thompson, Manitoba, Canada, and was a devoted single mother to her seventeen-year-old son, Anthony. She was also a compassionate caregiver who worked full-time with developmentally challenged adults. Over the years, she opened her home to dozens of foster children, often maintaining relationships and providing support long after their official care ended.
In the early hours of November 26th, 2005, Melissa was dispatched to a fare at the Thompson Arena. Shortly after, she informed dispatch that she planned to stop at the Ramada Hotel (now the Burntwood Hotel). It’s unclear whether she picked up any passengers at these locations.
Around twelve-thirty a.m., Melissa was seen driving eastbound near the City Centre Mall. She entered the mall’s parking lot, where she was attacked and fatally stabbed by two passengers in her cab. Her body was discovered lying outside her vehicle. The assailants fled on foot across a nearby field, heading toward the Eastwood area of Thompson.
The news of Melissa’s murder sent shockwaves through Thompson. Hundreds gathered for a memorial and vigil in the City Centre Mall parking lot, braving subzero temperatures to honor her memory. Local taxi companies suspended services during the vigil, lining their cabs bumper to bumper to provide warmth for attendees.
In response to the tragedy, the City of Thompson amended its taxi bylaw in 2006, mandating the installation of security cameras in all taxicabs to enhance driver safety.
Despite extensive investigations, Melissa’s murder remains unsolved. The case has changed hands multiple times and is currently managed by the Winnipeg RCMP, located approximately 435 miles south of Thompson. Melissa’s father, Milton, has been proactive in seeking justice, collecting tips and submitting them to the police. However, the family has expressed feelings of being “left in the dark” throughout the investigation.
A reward totaling $14,000 is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
Crime Immemorial 