Authorities have been baffled by feet inside running shoes that keep turning up on beaches in B.C. One foot found in October is no longer a mystery - thanks to DNA.
BURNABY – A right foot found inside a running shoe in Richmond is no longer a mystery - authorities said it belonged to a 25-year-old Lower Mainland man reported missing in January 2008.
"Through DNA analysis, the BC Coroners Service has confirmed the remains of a right foot, found Oct. 27, 2009, is that of a deceased male from the Lower Mainland," said Cpl. Annie Linteau.
"The foot was found on the beach at No. 6 Rd. and Triangle Rd. in Richmond," she said.
Linteau said a 25-year-old male was reported missing to RCMP by his family.
Based on the investigation into the circumstances of his disappearance and personal history, investigators do not believe foul play was involved. The man's identity is being withheld at the request of his family.
The RCMP, Delta Police Department and Coroners Service continue their investigations to determine the identities associated with other found feet.
These include a female pair found in Richmond, which was matched in December 2008; a male pair found on Valdez Island and Westham Island, matched in July 2008; and a male right foot found on Gabriola Island in August 2007.
In all cases, these remains appear to have naturally separated (disarticulated) from the body. There is no forensic evidence at this time to support anything other than disarticulation, she said in a
statement.
