The family of a missing woman says human remains found May 20 in Salmon Arm are not those of Ashley Simpson.
The Salmon Arm RCMP and BC Coroners Services announced Tuesday, May 24 they are investigating the discovery of human remains located by police but are awaiting DNA identification.
Ashley Simpson's father, John, posted on social media that his family was relieved at the news and continues to hope Ashley is alive, despite indications that foul play may have been involved with her disappearance.
The Salmon Arm RCMP were called to an area on 6th Street NE on May 20.
Investigators located what have been confirmed as partially decomposed human remains in an area between 6th Street NE and Lakeshore Drive. The remains were located down an unused steep footpath that is overgrown.
Police say the remains appear to be fairly recent.
“At this time the Salmon Arm RCMP is working with the BC Coroner’s service to identify those remains. The investigation and identification of the remains may take some time as investigators may have to rely on DNA analysis to conclusively identify the remains,” says RCMP Staff Sgt. Scott West.
Also still missing in the Salmon Arm area is 70-year-old Christopher Allbury, who has not been seen since being dropped off at the McGuire Lake Seniors Lodge on May 6.
West says updates will be provided when possible.