Two people were found dead inside a burning vehicle at a park in Abbotsford on January 3, prompting the deployment of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team.
IHIT has since launched an investigation into the matter.
According to IHIT, the incident took place shortly before 3 p.m. at Sumas Mountain Regional Park, northeast of downtown. At the time, members of the Abbotsford Police Department responded to a vehicle fire inside the park. Upon extinguishing the flames engulfing a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander, first responders discovered human remains inside the vehicle.
IHIT was subsequently deployed to Abbotsford and has been collaborating with the APD, Forensic Identification Services, and the BC Coroners Service to advance the investigation. With assistance from the RCMP Tactical Troop, a thorough search of the park was conducted for evidence. IHIT has now confirmed that the remains of two individuals were located inside the burnt vehicle.
"Although the circumstances surrounding the deaths are still being examined, we do not believe this was a random incident, and therefore, there is no ongoing risk to the public," IHIT Sgt. Freda Fong said. "We would like to thank several patrons at the park who rendered assistance and came forward to speak with the police. The details of this case may be disturbing to some, and those who are feeling affected are encouraged to seek support. IHIT Victim Services is available to anyone in need of assistance."
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this case to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or via email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.