North District Major Crimes Unit along with the Burns Lake RCMP are continuing to investigate the death of a local 17 year old teenage girl, as reported in the Lakes District News edition of Feb. 2, 2011.
RCMP have been investigating the death since they were called to the scene after a report at approximately 3:45 p.m. on Jan 26. that there was an unconscious girl at a home on Uncha Mountain Road.
Upon their arrival, the Burns Lake RCMP determined the girl was dead and noted the cause of her death to be under suspicious circumstances.
According to Sgt. Rob Vermeulen, from RCMP’s E division, an autopsy that was completed on Jan. 31 has determined the cause of death. “This is now a homicide investigation,” he said.
RCMP are not releasing any further details about the cause of the teen’s death at this time, or releasing the victims name, however the girl’s mother Geraldine Charlie has since spoken with the media, saying she found her daughter Chassidy Charlie in their Uncha Mountain Road home, her face was burnt, half of her hair was gone and her cell phone is missing.
RCMP say a full examination of the scene has now concluded.
“Investigators released the property late in the day on Jan. 31. Resources including forensic specialists, North District Major Crime investigators and members of the Burns Lake RCMP are involved in this priority investigation,” Sgt. Vermeulen added.
RCMP say a positive identification of the victim is still underway and is expected to be completed soon, at which time the name of the victim may be released.
“Our investigation is progressing and we believe this to be an isolated incident, not a random act.” stated Sgt. Vermeulen. “We are also continuing our support to the family and Cheslatta Carrier Nation through this difficult time,” he added.