10 years later, Ottawa remembers Ardeth Wood

Her disappearance and murder captured the heart of our city. On Aug. 6, 2003 Ardeth Wood went missing while out for a bike ride, prompting one of the biggest searches in Ottawa's history.

Her disappearance and murder captured the heart of our city.

10 years ago today, Ardeth Wood went missing while out for a bike ride, prompting one of the biggest searches in Ottawa's history.

She was a graduate student at the University of Waterloo, back at home visiting family.

"She turned out to be the smartest one of the bunch. She managed to get scholarships through Masters and PHD programs," says Brenden Wood, Ardeth's father.

Her body was found five days later in Green's Creek along the Rockliffe Parkway.

Her murder sent shockwaves of fear throughout the entire community.

"The first time I cycled to work aftewards, I felt quite frightened coming through this area. You realize being a single woman, by yourself, it's really uncomfortable," said cyclist Aldyth Holmes.

Chris Myers was charged in connection with her death in 2005.

In 2008, he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison.

Wood's death prompted many cyclists to join Ottawa's Pathway Patrol, including Holmes.

"We are eyes on the path, we have cell phones, we know who to call, we're just on looking out for things, says Holmes

"All of the volunteeers need to go through police record checks, and first aid and CPR training. It gives pathway users peace of mind," says volunteer coordinator Kristina Saunders.

For information on how to sign up for Pathway Patrol, visit http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/parks-and-recreation/drop-activities/pathway-patrol