The Chief of the Kawacatoose First Nation believes the Vancouver Police Department not continuing to investigate Chelsea Poorman’s death, whose remains were found in Vancouver in April, is an example of systemic racism. Poorman, who was a member of the Kawacatoose First Nation, was last seen in Vancouver in September of 2020, and her remains were found in Vancouver on April of this year by contractors working on a vacant home.

The statement from the First Nation says, “Despite recent reports and media statements made by Vancouver Police, the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death, and how she ended up in an area surrounded by multi-million-dollar homes when she had some mobility issues is highly suspicious. Chelsea’s remains were found not fully intact and some of her remains are still missing.”

Chief Tom Dustyhorn says the community and leadership of the First Nation refuse to accept the findings of the Vancouver Police Department. The First Nation is asking the public to respect the privacy of Chelsea Poorman’s family during this very difficult time.