Coquitlam RCMP investigators are hoping that several pieces of distinctive jewelry will help put a name to a man who has not been identified since his body was found 40 years ago at Sasamat Lake.
On June 5, 1977, the body of a man wearing a silver ring and bracelet along with two puka shell necklaces were found at the popular swimming spot. Investigators at the time believed the man had drowned; they never identified him.
“This guy wore pretty hip jewelry for the time and he cared about his appearance, so we are sure someone is missing him,” Coquitlam RCMP Cpl. Dennis Morrison told The Tri-City News.
“This man was someone’s brother, boyfriend or buddy and we’re hoping one of those people comes forward and gives us the missing link in this file.”
The victim had brown hair with long sideburns, brown eyes, a complicated upper dental plate, jeans and a comb in his back pocket. Investigators believe he was approximately 25 years old, stood six feet tall and weighed about 180 lb.
The man’s shoes, socks and shirt were never found and there were no injuries that would suggest foul play.
The body was found after several weeks and police believe someone may have driven the man to the lake but never spoke with police.
His peers would be approximately 65 years old today.
Anyone who recognizes the jewelry or has any information about the missing man’s identity are asked to call the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and ask for Cpl. Morrison. The BC Coroner is also working on the file and can be reached at 1-877-660-5077.
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