More than a year after Kai Pavlovic was reported missing in B.C.’s Lower Mainland, authorities have announced the discovery of the 11-year-old’s remains—as well as homicide charges against two people. The Burnaby child disappeared in September 2025, prompting a plea for tips on his whereabouts from the RCMP—though the force said the circumstances did not meet the threshold for issuing an Amber Alert. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team quietly took over the case in June, and confirmed Monday that the search had come to a tragic end. “It is with heavy hearts that we share this update in the investigation into Kai’s death,” said Sgt. Freda Fong, in a statement. “There are no words to accurately express the sadness surrounding the circumstances.” Officers arrested Burnaby resident Branko Bijelic, 51, on Thursday, and he has since been charged with second-degree murder and indignity to human remains. Authorities said Sarah Bijelic, 46, was also charged with manslaughter. Many questions remain about what happened, but IHIT said it will not be sharing further information while the case is before the courts. “We recognize the concern this investigation has caused within the community, and our thoughts are with Kai’s loved ones and those affected by this tragedy,” Fong said. “We thank the public for their assistance and for coming forward with information.” Burnaby RCMP previously said they discovered the boy missing after officers were asked to check on his well-being, but declined to confirm details of his custody arrangements—or information contained in an online fundraiser set up by extended family in New Zealand—citing privacy concerns. Early in the search, authorities did share a statement from unnamed relatives describing Pavlovic as “bright, curious and outgoing,” and someone who loved to “climb trees, build forts and learn to sail.” “He is a friend to all animals and particularly adores horses, cats and dogs,” the statement continued. “Kai’s family in New Zealand loves him dearly.”
