Remains of missing B.C. actor found, homicide investigators say

Police have discovered the remains of a B.C. actor who disappeared from his Lions Bay home one week ago.

Missing B.C. actor Stewart McLean has been located deceased, homicide investigators say.

The Lower Mainland’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team announced Friday afternoon that the 45-year-old’s remains had been found in Lions Bay, B.C., the small community on the Sea to Sky Highway where he was last seen on May 15.

McLean was reported missing on May 18, and Squamish RCMP said in an update Thursday that his case had been transferred to IHIT after evidence was found suggesting foul play.

In its update Friday, IHIT did not elaborate on what that evidence was, saying only that investigators believe McLean’s death was “an isolated incident.”

McLean was an Edmonton-born actor and producer with credits in TV series such as CW’s “Arrow” and Netflix’s “Travelers.” He last appeared onscreen in one episode of the Netflix TV series “Virgin River” released in March.

Friends and neighbours described McLean as kind and personable.

“Stewart was a very decent, caring person. Always friendly,” said longtime neighbour Russ Meikeljohn, who had known McLean for 15 years.

He was last seen alive at his residence in Lions Bay, according to police, who said they are working to build a timeline of McLean’s activities leading up to May 15.

“As the investigation continues to unfold, homicide investigators are working to collect and analyze evidence, review CCTV footage and conduct interviews,” said Cpl. Esther Tupper of IHIT, in the update.

“We are pursuing all available leads as we work to find answers for the family, friends and loved ones of Mr. McLean.”

Meikeljohn told CTV News he and his wife have been left shaken by the investigation.

“We’re in shock. We feel really numb. We’re not sleeping well. It’s very disturbing,” he said.

IHIT thanked Squamish RCMP, Integrated Police Dog Services, Integrated Forensic Identification Services and Lions Bay Search and Rescue for their help locating McLean’s remains.

Anyone who has information to share with the investigation is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-4448 or email [e-mail].

With files from CTV News Vancouver’s St. John Alexander and The Canadian Press