Vancouver man identified as Dease Lake victim: Canada-wide warrants issued for northern B.C. murder suspects

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      As a search for two murder suspects continues, the identity of one of three murder victims who was unknown has been confirmed.

      While the bodies of two tourists had been previously identified after being found near Liard Hot Springs, it was not until today (July 24) that B.C. RCMP confirmed the identity of the dead male found on July 19 at a highway pullout about two kilometres south of a vehicle on fire, which was located south of the Stikine River Bridge, on Highway 37. Previously, a sketch of the unidentified victim had been issued on July 22.

      RCMP said that the man has been identified as Leonard (“Len”) Dyck of Vancouver. His age was not disclosed.

      RCMP are seeking any information from anyone who spoke to Dyck while he was traveling in northern B.C. Anyone with information is asked to call 1-877-543-4822 or 778-290-5291.

      Dyck’s family released the following statement in an RCMP news release:

      "We are truly heart broken by the sudden and tragic loss of Len. He was a loving husband and father. His death has created unthinkable grief and we are struggling to understand what has happened. While we understand there will be interest in knowing more about him and the impact he had during his life, we are asking for the public and the media to please respect our privacy during this difficult time."

      The two suspects, 19-year-old Kam McLeod and 18-year-old Bryer Schmegelsky have been charged with one count of second degree murder for the death of Leonard Dyck.

      As a result of the charges, Canada-wide warrants have now been issued for McLeod and Schmegelsky.

      Saskatchewan RCMP received reports of the two suspects seen in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan on July 21.

      Then on July 24, Manitoba RCMP confirmed the RAV4 that they were driving was located on fire in the Gillam area in the northern part of the province on July 22.

      RCMP are asking the public to remain vigilant and to consider the pair to be armed and dangerous. RCMP stated that they may being using a different vehicle, travelling on foot, or even travelling separately. If they are spotted, the public is warned not to approach them but to call 911 or your local police immediately. 

      You can follow Craig Takeuchi on Twitter at @cinecraig or on Facebook

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