The Ridge Meadows RCMP and the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) are conducting an investigation following the discovery of human remains in the home of Jessica Cunningham, a 43-year-old woman who was reported missing in the summer.
Cunningham was last seen in June and reported missing in July.
On August 26th, Ridge Meadows RCMP issued a media release stating they were on scene of a home in the 22800 block of Gillis Place in Maple Ridge.
As criminality has been suspected, the area surrounding the scene was cordoned off for a significant amount of time. IHIT was called and is working in partnership with Ridge Meadows RCMP and the Integrated Forensic Identification Services (IFIS).
Cunningham’s story captured public attention after the Ridge Meadows RCMP put out a public appeal for information on her whereabouts on August 22nd.
The appeal stated that RCMP were concerned for her health and well-being given the amount of time that had elapsed since she was last in contact.
Police have stated that the remains have not been indentified, however, it has been reported that a body was found in the house Cunningham shared with her partner in a cul-de-sac southeast of Vancouver.
The day after the remains were discovered, Cunningham’s partner Mylie Barron was arrested for indignity to human remains. He has been charged and remains in custody.
According to his Facebook account, Barron is originally from Esquimalt.
“IHIT is working diligently to understand the circumstances surrounding Jessica’s disappearance,” Staff Sgt. David Lee said Thursday at a news conference. He explained that missing persons investigations are “very complex” and noted that investigators took multiple steps before evidence led them back to Cunningham’s home.
Court records show Barron was denied interim bail and is scheduled to appear in Port Coquitlam court on September 26th for a bail hearing. A publication ban has been imposed on evidence expected to be presented at the next appearance.
Police have not indicated whether additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation can call the IHIT information line 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
