Locals search for missing woman near the river

Sep 21, 2018 | 2:31 PM

 

 

Community residents came together to search for missing North Battleford resident Ashley Morin at Finlayson Island Friday.

The RCMP previously reported the 31-year-old woman has been missing since July 10. Her disappearance was considered suspicious and the RCMP’s Major Crime Unit North is assisting in the investigation.

Morin’s family said there have been several related tips the family received that Morin may be in the river area.

Two RCMP officers also attended the scene of Friday’s search at one point but would not comment as the case is under investigation. 

About 100 people took part in Friday’s search.

Morin’s uncle Randy Bird participated in the search and said the family received several tips indicating the river was a place they should look for Morin. 

“We’re certainly happy we’ve had the turnout we had,” he said. “The family is grateful they are trying to help us. We all were concerned when the little girl went missing and we are hoping our family would get the same concern. 

“It’s a loss for all of us, not just our family,” Bird added of Morin’s disappearance. “It’s sad that missing and murdered Indigenous women cases are not taken as seriously as some others. But we have to stick together anyway and do the best we can, to find solutions and come to a conclusion so our family can deal with whatever we find.”

Stephanie Bird, Morin’s cousin, said the family believe the latest tip received Thursday morning is a credible one so they didn’t want to wait.

She said a tip indicated there was a possibility Morin would be located around the river area.

“We’re taking it very seriously,” Bird added. “Even if it’s nothing, I’d rather search.

“We’ll be here until dusk, and we’ll do it again the next day, and the next day and the next day.”

Glenda Bird-Martin, Morin’s aunt, said Friday the family appreciates everyone’s support in joining in the search effort.

“People were out there. They had their dogs. People are really helping… It’s really positive,” she said. “People are saying: ‘I went to school with Ashley,’ or ‘I worked with her,’ or ‘I read it on Facebook and I want to help.’” 

 

angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW