RCMP have discovered the dead body of a woman at a Naramata residence that they were investigating in relation to the double homicide of two Kamloops men in May.
Police say they attended a residence on 3rd Street early June 9 as part of their murder investigation, when they discovered the residence was unsecured, and nobody came to the door.
Castanet can confirm this was 3940 3rd Street, a home that also housed the Naramata Hair Salon, operated by Kathy Richardson.
When officers entered the residence, they found the body of an adult woman. Her death is being investigated as a homicide. They have not named the victim.
“Investigators from the SED Major Crime and BC RCMP Major Crime units are working closely and sharing information regularly given the links between today’s and last month’s homicides,” said acting officer in charge (A/OIC) Supt. Sanjaya Wijayakoon.
“The investigation into the May deaths of Erick and Carlos Fryer is progressing and we know that their deaths were not a random act and likely connected to local drug and gang activities.”
While a preliminary identification of the woman has been completed, investigators are continuing to work with the BC Coroners Service to conclusively confirm.
“We know that news of another homicide in the community of Naramata will be concerning,” said Supt. Brian Hunter, officer in charge of the Penticton RCMP.
“These appear to be targeted acts, and this type of violence, related to drug and gang activities, is not normal in our community. Additional police resources have been brought into the area and you can expect to see a higher police presence in the days ahead. Now is the time for anyone with information to come forward.”
Anyone who has information, or may have dash cam or other video footage is asked to contact the SED MCU tipline at 1-877-987-8477.
