Image: IHIT / Homicide detectives in B.C. have now confirmed that two people were found dead inside a burnt vehicle at Sumas Mountain Regional Park late last week.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

IHIT

IHIT confirms 2 people found dead inside burnt vehicle at Abbotsford park

Jan 8, 2025 | 10:46 AM

ABBOTSFORD — Homicide detectives in B.C. have now confirmed that two people were found dead inside a burnt vehicle at Sumas Mountain Regional Park late last week.

According to a statement from IHIT Sgt. Freda Fong, Abbotsford PD first responded to a report of a vehicle fire at the regional park on Friday, January 3 at 2:46 p.m. First responders discovered a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV that was fully engulfed in flames. Once they extinguished the fire, they located what appeared to be human remains inside the vehicle.

IHIT was subsequently deployed to Abbotsford and has been working closely with AbbyPD, Forensic Identification Services and B.C. Coroners Service personnel to advance the investigation.

Sgt. Fong says a thorough search of the park was undertaken to collect evidence, with tactical assistance from the RCMP Tactical Troop. IHIT says it has now confirmed that the remains of two people were found inside the incinerated SUV.

“Although the circumstances surrounding the deaths are still being examined, we do not believe this was a random incident, and therefore, there is no ongoing risk to the public,” Sgt. Fong said. “We would like to thank several patrons at the park who rendered assistance and came forward to speak with the police. The details of this case may be disturbing to some and those who are feeling affected are encouraged to seek support. IHIT Victim Services is available to anyone in need of assistance.”

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Anyone who may have information about this case is being asked to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.