The BC Coroners Service (BCCS) confirmed on Monday, Oct. 28 it is investigating the discovery of human remains found near Whistler earlier this month.
While unable to offer many details with the investigation ongoing, a BCCS spokesperson said a wallet was found nearby and that the decedent was not missing Whistler senior Robert McKean, who was last seen the morning of Oct. 9, 2023 walking his dog.
That adds even more questions as to the whereabouts of the 80-year-old local, who has dementia, as well as to the identity of the deceased person found this month.
The search for McKean consisted of more than 300 search-and-rescue members (from 21 different teams around the province), with help from police, firefighters, and civilians. Although the investigation remains active, the mass search was called off after a week, pending further investigation.
Signs were also erected at strategic locations in the spring, including Rick’s Roost trailhead, Rainbow Reservoir, 19 Mile Creek Bridge and Rainbow Lake Trailhead.
“As well, a search with Whistler RCMP, Whistler SAR, and RCMP Police Dog Services was conducted on May 13 in an area identified by SAR that could yield evidence. The area was searched extensively but no evidence of Mr. McKean’s whereabouts was identified,” said Whistler RCMP Sgt. Sascha Banks at the time.
It's unclear where exactly the remains were found this month. Pique first received an unconfirmed tip from the public Oct. 11 that remains were discovered, along with a wallet, in a wooded area off Mons Road, while the BCCS would only say the decedent was found within Whister.
Tips from the public can be sent to [email protected].
This story was updated once more information became available. The original story follows as it was published on Friday, Oct. 25.
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Whistler police are investigating the discovery of remains they say they "believe to be human."
Pique first received an unconfirmed tip from the public Oct. 11 that remains were discovered, along with a wallet, in a wooded area off Mons Road. After asking Whistler RCMP for more information, police on Oct. 24 finally confirmed they are investigating the matter, alongside the BC Coroners Service, but provided little other detail.
"It is important to note that we do not have any public safety concerns surrounding the discovery of the remains," said Cpl. Katrina Boehmer, media relations officer with the Whistler RCMP.
"As the matter is with the BC Coroners Service for further investigation, the Sea to Sky (Whistler) RCMP will not be able to provide any further details at this time."
A voicemail left with the Coroners Service was not immediately returned.
Pique will update this story if and when more information becomes available.
