Thirty years after 15-year-old Melanie Ethier disappeared in New Liskeard, Ontario Provincial Police are renewing their appeal for information. A new billboard has been put up marking the anniversary of her disappearance and showing the clothing Melanie was last seen wearing. On Sept. 29, 1996, Melanie left a friend’s home in New Liskeard in the early morning hours. It was less than a kilometre from her home, but she never made it there. Police believe Melanie’s last known sighting was on the Armstrong Street Bridge between 1:35 and 1:50 a.m. Foul play suspected The OPP say foul play is suspected. “Thirty years is a long time for a family to wait for answers,” said OPP Det. Insp. Seth Adair. “At the 30-year anniversary, we felt that it was time to renew that sign and let the public know that this investigation hasn’t stopped. We have a dedicated team assigned to this investigation.” Police said the new billboard highlights the green Nike jacket, black belt, black boots and distinctive necklace Melanie was wearing when she disappeared. Investigators believe there are people who know what happened to Melanie and are urging them to come forward. “It is the biggest question that we need to answer,” said Adair. “It’s the same question that investigators for all these years have been trying to answer. We really believe at this point we’re going to need someone to come forward who knows something we don’t.” Adair said police do not want anyone with information to take it to their grave. A $50,000 reward remains available for information leading to an arrest and conviction. For Melanie’s mother, Celine Ethier, the last three decades have been spent seeking answers. In a statement provided to media, Celine directly addressed the person she believes knows what happened to her daughter. “I have been stuck on Sept. 29, 1996, for three decades while you have been living your life carrying the secret of what happened to my daughter,” Celine said. “I am asking you to please tell us where her remains are so I can give her the proper burial she deserves and finally be at peace.” Anyone with information is asked to contact the Temiskaming OPP by calling the toll-free number 1-888-310-1122 or the local office at 705-647-8400 and speak with investigators or report information anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
