Human remains found Oct. 8 on Norrish Creek Road, a remote logging area north of Mission, have been identified as David Charles Urquhart, 26, a man reported missing from Maple Ridge.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) reported Wednesday morning that the BC Coroners Service had identified the remains, which were found by a hunter.
Mission RCMP called in IHIT, which is now heading the investigation into what they have deemed a “suspicious death.”
Urquhart was last seen in the Maple Ridge area in late August and was reported missing to Ridge Meadows RCMP on Aug. 31.
On Oct. 5, police issued a press release about his disappearance, saying “new information (had) surfaced, leading investigators to seek the public’s help” with the search.
Urquhart was known to frequent areas such as Chilliwack, Abbotsford and Mission.
IHIT media relations officer Sgt. Stephanie Ashton said it is hoped that the people he associated with will come forward to share their knowledge of his whereabouts in late August.
“This will aid investigators in determining his activities prior to his disappearance and subsequent death,” she said.
She said IHIT is working closely with Fraser Valley police, the coroner’s office and numerous support units to determine what happened to Urquhart.
Ashton said anyone who was in the area of Norrish Creek Road in late August or early September might also have useful information.
“The area where Mr. Urquhart’s body was found is frequented by hunters and target shooters who may have seen something suspicious or out of the ordinary while engaging in those pastimes,” she said.
According to the provincial court database, Urquhart had an extensive criminal record, with convictions that included possession of an unauthorized firearm, possession of a controlled substance, possession of stolen property, identity theft, drug trafficking, forcible entry, robbery, and several counts of breaching his conditions.
Most of his crimes were committed in Abbotsford, but were also in Surrey, Vancouver, Williams Lake and Penticton.
Anyone with information regarding the investigation can call the IHIT tipline at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email ihittipline@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
Those wanting to remain anonymous can also provide information online at solvecrime.ca or by phone at 1-800-222-8477.