Missing B.C. woman’s vehicle was found burned in a gravel pit, mother says

Karen Tessier, 58, was last seen on July 9, 2024. (Handout)

The family of a British Columbia woman who disappeared last year, prompting an ongoing investigation by RCMP major crime detectives, is pleading for information that police believe some members of the public may be withholding.

Karen Tessier, a 58-year-old member of the Fort Nelson First Nation, was last seen in the northern B.C. community on July 9, 2024.

Five days later, Tessier’s black Dodge Caravan was found in a rural area outside Fort Nelson, and the North District Major Crime Unit launched an investigation into her disappearance.

On Tuesday, the B.C. RCMP published a video recorded by members of Tessier’s family, including her mother, who revealed that Tessier’s minivan was found burned in a gravel pit after she left home with a group of friends.

Mounties last year set up a dedicated tip line for information about the case, saying in a statement that “investigators believe that members of the public have information regarding her disappearance and have not yet come forward.”

The Fort Nelson First Nation also announced a reward of up to $50,000 for anyone who could provide information that leads to a significant case development, such as an arrest.

Tessier’s mother, Elizabeth Burke, described her daughter in the video as a beloved mother, grandmother, wife and friend to many.

“I know someone knows what happened to her and where she is,” Burke said. “Please do the right thing and talk.”

The family has been “struggling with their grief beyond what words can express” since Tessier’s unsolved disappearance, Burke added.

“I’m begging you: If you know anything, please talk to someone,” she said through tears. “Let it out and just let us bring Karen back to us so we can bury her.”

Tessier is described as an Indigenous woman standing approximately 5’ 5” tall and weighing 177 pounds. She has brown eyes and brown hair, according to police.

Anyone with information about her disappearance or whereabouts is asked to contact the dedicated RCMP tip line at 250-561-8888.