The tenth day of testimony at the Desmond Fatality Inquiry in Guysborough Wednesday saw four witnesses called, but half the day was spent with one.
Catherine Chambers had two assessment therapy sessions with Lionel Desmond in the month before, and one informal phone session the day, he killed his wife, daughter, mother, and then himself in their Upper Big Tracadie home in 2017.
She said Desmond seemed to want to get better, loved his wife, and wanted to rebuild his family after his time in the armed forces.
Chambers told the inquiry he was polite and calm, but emotionless.
“There was a flat affect, so even as he was describing things that I imaged were upsetting, that wasn’t reflected in his facial expressions.”
Chambers said Desmond had a circular and disorganised way of thinking, and often went on tangents, related or unrelated, when she asked him questions.
She said that wasn’t surprising to her; it is common for people suffering from PTSD.
Chambers said he told her about issues with his relationship, and said he wanted to stop fighting with his wife.
She said Desmond also told her Shanna Desmond had asked for a divorce when he spoke to Chambers on the phone on Jan. 3, 2017; only hours before committing the triple murder-suicide.
Her testimony continues Thursday.
