Australian man, US girlfriend killed in double homicide in northern BC

After the “suspicious” death of two adults in northern BC earlier this week, police have now confirmed their deaths as a double homicide, and have identified the victims as well.

According to RCMP, the investigation began when officers were called to an area approximately 20 kilometres south of Liard Hot Springs on Highway 97, on Monday.

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Upon their arrival, police found the two deceased adults – a man and a woman.

Now, “in an effort to further the investigation and help determine a timeline leading up to their deaths, police have released the identities of the two victims,” said RCMP Sgt. Janelle Shoihet.

The woman has been identified as Chynna Noelle Deese of the US, and the man has been identified as Lucas Robertson Fowler of Australia.

As part of their investigation, police said they would like to speak to anyone that may have travelled this stretch of highway between 4 pm on Sunday, July 14, and 8 am on Monday, July 15. In particular, they’re looking for anyone who may have a dashcam video while travelling that area.

A vehicle – described as an “older” blue minivan with Alberta plates – was found at the scene, and police said they would like to speak with anyone who may have seen the vehicle or rendered assistance, as well.

According to a Sydney Morning Herald report, Lucas was the son of NSW Police Chief Insp. Stephen Fowler.

His family released a statement in response to the couple’s death, calling it the “most terrible” of circumstances.

“To lose someone so young and vibrant, who was travelling the world and just enjoying life to the full, is devastating,” they said. “To know his beautiful girlfriend, Chynna Deese of Charlotte, North Carolina also lost her life in this violent event is too cruel.”

The family said they are now travelling to Canada to “be with our boy and to bring him home.”

Police are also asking anyone who may have information on this incident to contact the Northern Rockies RCMP detachment at 250-774-2700, or if they wish to remain anonymous, to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or leave a tip online.