On Feb. 23, local missing teenager Jodi Henrickson had her 18th birthday, but RCMP announced today they believe she never reach that age.
Police issued a press release today stating the missing teen file is now officially a murder investigation.
"Police are classifying this as a homicide at this time," states the release.
The Henrickson family was aware the case was to be classified a homicide, but it didn't ease the blow when they were told this week, said Cpl. Dave Ritchie.
"It's been an emotional time," he said. "They were aware it was coming. They expressed that they had a lot of tears on the 23rd, which would've been her 18th birthday."
RCMP stated from the beginning that Henrickson's disappearance from Bowen Island on June 20th while walking from one house party to another late at night was suspicious.
She was reported missing June 24th.
Numerous subsequent reports of sightings were provided to police from as far away as Halifax, but none of the calls produced a shred of evidence, states police.
"To date numerous tips and possible sightings have been reported. All have proven to be unfounded. Investigators do not believe that Jodi ran away, nor that she made it off Bowen Island on her own accord," states the release.
"Investigators believe that Jodi vanished in the early morning hours of June 20th from Bowen Island and was a victim of foul play."
Police are now refocusing energies toward Bowen Island and toward individuals who police viewed as uncooperative or fearful.
"Since the initial report, the investigation has been extensive, and progress has been made, however, police are going to renew their inquiries on Bowen Island during the next few weeks, in an attempt to refresh and renew interest in determining the whereabouts of Jodi," states the release.
"Police believe that there are parties on Bowen Island who may have information and be able to assist in this investigation, and are unwilling or hesitant to come forward. There are other parties who refuse to co-operate with the investigation at this time."
Anyone with information is asked to contact the general investigation section at Squamish detachment 604 892-6100. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers 24/7 at 1-800-222-8477. Callers are not required to testify in court nor provide names, addresses, or telephone numbers. A cash reward of up to $2,000 will be paid for any information leading to an arrest and charge.
