Investigation into possible serial killer underway after remains identified

Corrie Renee Ottenbreit is shown in an undated photo. Supplied.

RCMP investigators are looking into the possibility a serial killer could be responsible, after the remains of a woman were found in the same area as the remains of three other individuals in a rural area near Leduc.

On Tuesday, RCMP saidthe remains of Corrie Renee Ottenbreit, of Edmonton, were found on the Leduc-area property along with the remains of Delores Brower, on April 19, 2015.

Ottenbreit had been the subject of a missing persons file since July 2004.

Investigators said her identity was confirmed through DNA analysis of a hair sample she provided to Project KARE in December, 2003, for the purpose of helping police in the event she went missing.

Ottenbreit’s death is considered a homicide, and the RCMP Historical Homicide Unit is investigating.

Investigators said Ottenbreit lived in Edmonton, she was last seen by a family member at 10 p.m. on Sunday, May 9, 2004, when she left her home to go to work..

RCMP said she worked in the sex trade along 118 Avenue.

When she was last seen, RCMP said Corrie was 27-years-old, was 165 cm (5’5”) tall, and weighed 55 kg (120 lbs). Her hair was naturally red, but dyed blonde at the time.

She is believed to have been wearing a black leather jacket, black or blue jeans, and black FILA brand running shoes.

Police confirmed the remains identified as Ottenbreit and Brower were found within a five mile radius of where the remains of Amber Tuccaro were found in September 2012, and the remains of Katie Sylvia Ballantyne were found in July 2003.

“One of the investigative theories in relation to these deaths is that we may be dealing with a serial predator,” Inspector Stacy Talbot said.

Ottenbreit’s family released a statement in response to the development, saying they were morning her death.

“Corrie was a loving daughter, partner, sister and friend. Nothing can ever change that or the fond memories we have of our happy times together.

“Our only hope now is that we will someday learn more about what lead to her disappearance and death. We ask anyone that has any information that could help the police to come forward.”

Anyone with information on her disappearance or death, or who may have seen her after May 9, 2004, is asked to call Project KARE at 1-877-412-KARE (5273), or the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

With files from Susan Amerongen