The RCMP say they have found a body that they believe is Hailey Dunbar-Blanchette.
The 2-year-old Dunbar-Blanchette has been missing since Monday, September 14, after her 27-year-old father Terry Blanchette was found dead in their Blairmore home. The child’s body has been found in a rural area outside of Blairmore, during a police search based on information they received through their investigation.
“The RCMP extends its deepest condolences to Hailey’s family. This is a sad day for the citizens of Blairmore and all Canadians who have held this little girl in their thoughts and prayers since Monday,” said RCMP Superintendent Tony Hamori, Assistant District Officer in Southern Alberta. “We can’t say much about the investigation at this point, other than to thank the public and the media for helping us find Hailey.”
A 22-year-old man was taken into police custody Tuesday, September 15, and charges are pending. The RCMP say they will release the man’s name once charges are laid.
The Amber Alert for Hailey has been cancelled, and the RCMP say they are no longer looking for the white van seen fleeing Blanchette’s home.
UPDATE: 22-year-old Derek Saretzky of Blairmore has been charged with first degree murder in the two deaths, and indignity to a body for moving and disposing of Hailey’s corpse. The RCMP have not released the motive behind Saretzky’s actions.
He will make his first appearance in court in Lethbridge, on Wednesday, September 23, at 9:30 a.m.