Submitted. Just before 9:00 am on Wednesday, January 1st a Patrol Division Officer from the Abbotsford Police Department located a body in an area of dense brush in the 2100 block of Whatcom Road. It appeared that the deceased person had been there for some time. APD Patrol, Forensic Identification Unit and Major Crime Unit members attended the scene and gathered evidence. There was no indication of foul play but there were signs that the deceased was missing person Erica Schmidt. Investigators met with the family and continued working toward a positive identification.
It has now been confirmed that the deceased person is Erica Schmidt. This tragically ends an investigation that began in early October 2013.
The missing person investigation involved search and rescue deployments, media and social media appeals and tireless work by friends and family. The community demonstrated amazing levels of support, and caring citizens throughout the province posted photos and news releases from Vancouver Island to the BC Interior. The Abbotsford Police Department and the Schmidt family would like to thank everyone who showed support and provided assistance along the way.
Finally, the Abbotsford Police Department would like to extend condolences to all of Erica’s family and friends. You have all been remarkable, resilient, strong and courageous. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
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Previously updated, Oct/13: The Erica Schmidt missing person investigation is continuing. Abbotsford Police Department officers continue to speak with witnesses and explore all possible sightings.
The APD has obtained a security video that captures Erica walking northbound in the 2400 block of McCallum Road at 3:15 pm on Saturday, October 5, 2013 (the day she was reported missing).
In the video she is observed wearing a light blue jacket, a long dark skirt, flat shoes and carrying a large black purse. We hope that this video will assist witnesses who might have been in that area on that day to recollect something that will further the investigation.
It also provides an updated clothing description for all to consider.
To this point, there have been several reported sightings of Erica Schmidt in Abbotsford and other communities in British Columbia.
We continue to investigate each of these and we encourage anyone with information to immediately call the APD at 604-859-5225.
Link to security video.
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Previously submitted. Erica Schmidt is still missing and, according to both the Abbotsford News and the Abbotsford Times the volunteer force determined to find her is growing.
According to the News and Times friends and family of Erica Schmidt Command Centre River Community Church (located behind Dogwood Bowling on South Fraser Way).
A Facebook page has been set up to help get the word out and keep volunteers connected.
Help Find Erica!
Erica Schmidt is 5′ 4″, 140 pounds with short brown hair and blue eyes. Anyone who thinks they have spotted her is asked to call the APD at 604-859-5225 or text abbypd (222973).