Robin Wood, a retired mechanic from Saltspring Island, was killed in Mexico in January.
A retired mechanic from Saltspring Island was killed in Mexico this week during a break-in, according to a friend.
Robin Wood died during the incident on Monday, Eric Lundstrom said on Tuesday.
"It was a break and enter. He got killed during a robbery," said Mr. Lundstrom, who operates a garage on property rented from Mr. Wood.
CBC reported that the incident occurred in the Pacific coastal town of Melaque after Mr. Wood, 67, challenged two robbers who had entered the home of fellow Canadian Arvid Chalmers, where the pair was staying. Mr. Wood was shot.
Mr. Lundstrom said he did not have any other immediate details on the situation – the latest in a series of incidents in which Canadians have found themselves in harm's way while vacationing in Mexico.
Mr. Lundstrom said Mr. Wood, who had been spending time in Mexico since retiring, was well known on Saltspring.
"Everybody pretty much knew who he was, for sure. He was a great guy. He would do anything to help anybody," he said.
Mr. Lundstrom said he was not aware of Mr. Wood having any problems in previous visits to Mexico.
The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Tuesdy that a Canadian was murdered in Mexico, but released few other details. In an e-mail, spokesman Jean-François Lacelle wrote that the government's "thoughts and deepest condolences" are with the dead man's family and friends.
He said consular officials in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, are working with local authorities and are ready to help the family.
Ian Bailey