The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit has joined the investigation into the mysterious disappearance of 18 year-old Delores (Deedee) Brown.
Ladysmith RCMP, Island District investigators, community members and rescue teams have been searching for Brown since she was reported missing on July 29.
Brown lives on Penelakut Island and was travelling to her grandmother’s house in Chemainus but never arrived for the visit. The teen has never gone missing before and her family is very worried.
“This is very out of character for Miss Brown, who has left behind her phone,” said Ladysmith RCMP Cpl. Rick Fraser.
Brown is described as a First Nations woman, 5’6” tall, approximately 120 pounds. She was last seen walking on Penelakut Island wearing blue jeans, a hoodie, and carrying a backpack.
A public plea for help locating Brown was issued July 30.
“As that time gets longer, of course our concern levels rise for the involvement of foul play,” Island District RCMP spokesman Cpl. Darren Logan was quoted in the Times Colonist Aug. 8.
Police, community members and search and rescue teams have searched the area.
It is not known if Brown left Penelakut Island. Said Logan, “It’s one of those questions that we’re still trying to figure out, so our appeal for information goes beyond Penelakut because there’s a chance she may have come to the main body of Vancouver Island.”
Police ask anyone who may have seen Brown since July 27 or has information on her whereabouts to contact the Ladysmith RCMP at 250-245-2215 or Crime stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.