Woman missing from B.C. First Nation along Highway of Tears found dead

A woman who disappeared from a First Nations community in central British Columbia last month has been found dead.

The Vanderhoof RCMP and the Saik’uz First Nation say the remains of Chelsey Quaw, who was first reported missing on Oct. 11, were found in a wooded area on the Indigenous community’s territory.

Police say the BC Coroners Service is investigating the cause of death, and no further details on the case are available at this time.

Quaw was one of two community members missing from the First Nation — located 100 kilometres west of Prince George along Highway 16 — this year.

“Chelsey had the most amazing spirit, beautiful strength and independence. Most importantly, she had an incredible impact on those in her life. We will not rest until we get answers,” Pam Heron, Chelsey Heron (Quaw)’s mother, said in a statement, adding her daughter was loved deeply by her family, friends, and community.

“Chelsey was a beautiful soul that was taken from us too soon,” added Mary Teegee, Carrier Sekani Family Services executive director of Child and Family Services.

“We need to ensure that something like this never happens again. There are 33 Highway of Tears Recommendations and 231 Calls for Justice that need our action now.” 

The stretch of highway between Prince George and Prince Rupert is known as the Highway of Tears after dozens have vanished or been killed along it over the last few decades.

First Nations leaders and family members last week called for more action from police and the public in locating both Quaw and Jay Preston Raphael, who was reported missing Feb. 26 after walking away from a residence at the Saik’uz First Nation.