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Murder victim found near Hope identified as woman known to frequent downtown Vancouver

She was 19
MelissaElizabethSteele
Melissa Elizabeth Steele.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is looking into the murder of a woman who often spent time in downtown Vancouver.

On Wednesday, May 26, a driver on Highway 1 between Hope and Yale spotted a body on the side of the road, according to a release from IHIT. Police have now identified the body as that of 19-year-old Melissa Elizabeth Steele.

They believe foul play was involved.

"She was known to frequent the downtown area of Vancouver and led a transient lifestyle," states IHIT in the release. "Investigators are working to develop a timeline of Steele’s activities prior to her death. They are also seeking dash cam video from anyone who was travelling between Boston Bar and Hope on May 25 and 26."

The B.C. Coroners Service is also investigating to determine a cause of death.

Anyone with information is asked to reach out. Investigators can be reached via the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at [email protected]. Anonymous tips can be called in to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.