Youth, 15, charged with 2nd-degree murder in death of Brandy Vittrekwa
A 15-year-old male has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of Brandy Vittrekwa, whose body was found on a walking trail in Whitehorse last December.
RCMP say the youth was arrested Tuesday. The accused cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. A bail hearing is set for May 7.
Vittrekwa's body was found on the night of Dec. 8, on a walking trail in the McIntyre subdivision. An arrest was made three days later in connection with her death, but no charges were laid.
Doris Bill, chief of the Kwanlin Dun First Nation, says she's "extremely relieved" an arrest has been made.
"I'm thinking of her family today," said Bill.
"I'm glad that maybe this will give them some measure of peace."
Bill has been following up with the RCMP since December, "letting them know that the community is still waiting."
"We want to see some kind of resolution to this situation and we're glad to see that came about today."
Bill says Kwanlin Dun First Nation wants to close the trail where Brandy's body was found, and is looking at options for a safety patrol program.
RCMP Cpl. Calista MacLeod thanked the public for providing tips that assisted the police.
"Obviously because this case is before the court, that also limits the information that we are able to provide to the public but again, I really would like to thank those who have assisted with the investigation," she said.
Police continue to ask anyone who has information to contact the Whitehorse RCMP at 867-667-5555.