B.C. major crime detectives investigating after remains of missing man found

Prince Rupert Ground Search and Rescue volunteers were dispatched to a coastal area in Lax Kw'alaams to “conduct a specialized evidence search” at the request of the RCMP. (Handout)

Human remains discovered on the northwestern coast of British Columbia have been identified as those of a man who disappeared under suspicious circumstances more than six years ago.

The North District RCMP says the remains were discovered in Lax Kw’alaams, an Indigenous community near Prince Rupert.

The B.C. Coroners Service has identified the body as that of Lawrence Maitland, who was reported missing in July 2019, according to police.

The regional major crime unit assumed conduct of the missing person case shortly after Maitland’s disappearance.

In an update Thursday announcing the discovery of the remains, the RCMP said major crime detectives continue to investigate the circumstances of his disappearance and death.

“No further details are available at this time,” Cpl. Madonna Saunderson said in the brief update. “More information may be released as it becomes available.”

After Maitland was reported missing, the RCMP said he was last seen pushing his bicycle along Victoria Street in Lax Kw’alaams. Police immediately described his disappearance as suspicious.

Earlier this week, Prince Rupert Ground Search and Rescue volunteers were dispatched to a coastal area in Lax Kw’alaams to “conduct a specialized evidence search” at the request of the RCMP, the group said in a statement.

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