File # 2008-1698
2010-01-01 20:42 PST

 The RCMP North District major Crime Unit confirm case being investigated as a homicide and are seeking cooperation from reluctant witnesses in disappearance case of 31 year old Derek Kelly.

Two years ago, 31 year old Derek Kelly was reported missing by his family in Langley on January 16, 2008. The inital investigation, confirmed that Mr Kelly had traveled to the Interior BC area where he met with foul play on January 1st 2008.
 
On January 1, 2008 Derek Kelly, was last seen in the area of Bridge Lake and Highway 24, close to 100 Mile House BC.
 
Mr Kelly’s last known whereabouts were at New Years Eve party at a property in the Bridge Lake area near 100 Mile House.  Although classified as a missing persons file, the matter is being treated as a homicide.   
 
To date, charges have not been laid in connection with the homicide of Derek Kelly, however the RCMP North District Major Crime Unit are actively continuing their investigation into the young man’s death.
 

" In April 2008, investigators did obtain a search warrant which authorized police to enter and search a property in the 100 Mile House area.  The search did yield valuable evidence that has advanced the case further", stated Cpl Dan Moskaluk.
 
"We have also identified several potential witnesses who have been approached by investigators, but for unknown reasons, have to date been reluctant to cooperate with police. The investigators are confident in saying that the outstanding witness evidence could very well unlock the puzzle.  Their testimony, would at the least, permit investigators to confirm and strengthen their findings to date.  
 
As in any homicide case, the primary goal is to identify and bring the accused before justice. There is someone who is responsible for this man’s death and we empathise with the Kelly’s and understand their suffering and frustration.
 
This file will remain open until the individual or individuals responsible for Derek’s death are brought to justice.  It is equally disturbing to consider that there is also someone, possibly many persons, who could assist in this matter and to date decline to do so, we implore that they come forward and do the right thing.
 
Our investigators are aware that there are people who have information regarding Derek’s murder, but have refused to share this information with police,"  added Cpl Dan Moskaluk.
 
Anyone with information regarding this matter is asked to come forward by contacting the RCMP North District Major Crime Unit at 250-649-3924, or their local police service.  Those wishing to provide information and remain anonymous, can do so by contacting Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
 

 

Released by

Cpl. Dan Moskaluk
Senior Media Relations Officer
South East and North District
170 -395 Penno Road, Kelowna BC V1X-7W5
Office: (250) 863-7433
Cell: (250) 863-7433
Fax: (250) 491-2381
Email: dan.moskaluk@rcmp-grc.gc.ca