The Saskatchewan RCMP has confirmed that the vehicle found on Oct. 22 in eastern Saskatchewan, with human remains nearby, was the one being operated by Ruby Barnes, the 64-year-old woman who was last seen in the Carlyle area June 18.
At this point in the investigation, the identity of the remains located near the vehicle discovered has not yet been confirmed. The forensic autopsy, including comparison of dental records and possibly DNA if required, must be completed before the remains can be identified. The autopsy will be conducted on Friday by the Provincial Coroners Service.
Family members have been notified and this investigation remains ongoing, pending a positive identification. At this time, the death is not considered suspicious.
The RCMP reported Tuesday that at approximately 1 p.m. the previous day, Esterhazy RCMP responded to a report of a vehicle located in the bush on an isolated, rural property near Bangor.
Preliminary investigation determined that a single vehicle travelling on a remote, gravel road appears to have gone through a T-intersection and into dense bush and was not immediately visible from the road. The SUV had significant damage and a lone, deceased individual was located at the scene.
Barnes was last seen at a business in the 200-block of Main Street in Carlyle at approximately 9:30 a.m. on June 18. She was reported missing to the RCMP at approximately 9:40 p.m. that day.
Since she vanished, the Carlyle RCMP has been investigating calls regarding her disappearance.
There have been reported sightings of her in several locations that were investigated and determined to not be her. Different detachments have been involved to follow up on possible leads.
Searches occurred in several areas as well.
The Mercury will have more information as it becomes available.
