THE homicide victim whose body was found in a rural area of Pitt Meadows has been identified as Ian Roberts, 43, of Delta by the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team to further their investigation.

Roberts was known to police and investigators believe his murder was not a random act.

On April 30, at around 2:30 p.m., Ridge Meadows RCMP received a 911 call from a passerby who found a body in the 14500-block of Hale Road in Pitt Meadows.

Police attended this location and found a dead male near the dykes.  The victim’s death was deemed a homicide and IHIT was called in.

IHIT said it has been working closely with its partners from the Ridge Meadows RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the B.C. Coroners Service to gather evidence.

On April 30, at around 6 a.m., the Langley RCMP recovered a red 1996 GMC Jimmy (see stock photo) that was associated to Roberts in the area of 56th Avenue and Logan Avenue.  Investigators would like to speak with anyone who may have seen this vehicle from Saturday through to the early morning hours on Monday.

IHIT Cpl. Frank Jang said, “I urge those with information about Mr. Robert’s murder to come forward and speak with IHIT.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).