Police have now confirmed that a body found near Smithers September 15 is that of Jessica Patrick (Balczer).
When Smithers police announced human remains had been found, speculation mounted in the community that the remains were those of Patrick and a community rally was held last week. Police waited until a positive identification was made before releasing the name.
The RCMP with assistance of the BC Coroner Service are working together to determine the cause of Jessica’s death. It is a criminal investigation.
Patrick was located, deceased, just outside Smithers by people who wanted to help find her. The location was on Hudson Bay Mountain Road, at a large pull out, about 15 metres down a steep bank. Those people quickly called the RCMP and protected the scene.
Patrick was a member of the Lake Babine Nation. Many people, including friends and family, have come forward and provided information to help the RCMP with the investigation.
When Patrick wasn’t located the North District RCMP sent a progressively expanding team of Major Crime Unit resources, who shortly after, took over responsibility for the investigation. The Smithers RCMP have continued to support the Major Crime Unit. The investigative team has obtained numerous court orders in an effort to secure all relevant evidence.
