Homicide of Burnaby girl Marrisa Shen was a 'random attack' say RCMP

Jul 27 2017, 4:27 am

The homicide of 13-year-old Burnaby teen Marrisa Shen was a random attack, according to IHIT and the Burnaby RCMP.

The 13-year-old’s body was found in Burnaby‘s Central Park last week.

In a news conference today Cpl. Meghan Foster of IHIT and Supt. Chuck McDonald of Burnaby RCMP gave an update on the investigation.

“In review, the evidence to date indicates Ms. Shen’s murder was a random attack,” said  Foster.

“These events have caused great distress and sparked much concern about safety within the community. I can say that no links have been made between this homicide and other reported links of violence.”

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At this time no suspect(s) have been identified.

“We are still in the early stages of evidence gathering,” said Foster. “These initial stages in homicide investigation can be lengthy.”

‘This incident has shaken us all’ 

Supt. McDonald says that the community must remain vigilant and parents should take precaution with their children.

“As a parent of two daughters I cannot begin to imagine the impact and the terrible toll this has had on Marrisa’s family,” he said. “This incident has shaken us all.”

McDonald is advising that parents need to talk to their kids about increasing measures for their personal safety.

The Burnaby RCMP is advising the following tips:

  • Don’t walk or jog early in the morning or late at night when the streets are deserted
  • If possible, walk with friends or in pairs
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Be visible and stick to well-lit areas and walk with confidence
  • If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street
  • If the person continues to follow you move quickly towards an open store, or restaurant or well-lit house
  • Don’t be afraid to yell or call 911
This map shows where Marrisa Shen's body was found (IHIT)

This map shows where Marrisa Shen’s body was found (IHIT)

A number of tips have been received but investigators still require the public’s help.

“Investigators are in search of anyone who took photographs or video while inside the park or surrounding areas on the night of July 18, between 6 pm and 1 am. This includes those who have dash cam video,” said Cpl.  Foster.

“We understand that there are many questions, but in light of how the facts present we ask the public remain vigilant. Marrisa’s death was senseless.”

You can contact IHIT at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or [email protected]. Or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or at solvecrime.ca.

DH Vancouver StaffDH Vancouver Staff

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