The remains of a man located on the shore of the Tsawwassen First Nation by a dog walker last Wednesday have been confirmed to be Waylon Joe.
Joe, a 36-year-old member of the Tsawwassen First Nation, was reported missing to the Delta police by his family on Aug. 18. Joe was last seen on Aug. 13 on TFN lands.
“An extensive search was conducted after Waylon was reported missing, spanning several weeks” said Supt. Kelly Young, head of Delta Police Department’s investigative services. “Police were joined by the TFN community, Surrey Search & Rescue, RCMP air services and dive team, but unfortunately we were not able to locate him. However our officers continued to work hard, pursuing a number of investigative strategies in an effort to find him.”
The Delta Police Department is working with the BC Coroners Service to investigate the circumstances surrounding Joe’s death. Foul play is not suspected, and this matter is being treated as a coroner’s case.
Cause of death at this time remains undetermined.
“This was difficult news to bring to Waylon’s loved ones,” said Young. “We had all hoped for a different outcome. However, I hope the news can bring them, and this tight knit community, some sense of closure.”
In a post to Facebook, TFN Chief Bryce Williams said the search for Joe had come to an end.
"It is with a heavy heart I inform you that the search for our relative and friend, Waylon Joe, has come to an end," said Williams. "Yesterday, the Delta Police Department's autopsy results confirmed that Waylon's body was discovered on Tsawwassen Lands last Wednesday. Our prayers and deepest condolences are with the Joe family. We love you and are here for you."
