An autopsy has confirmed the death of Destiny Rae Tom on Nautley First Nations Reserve on March 23 was a result of foul play.
Destiny Tom’s badly beaten body was found outside a residence on the reserve near Fort Fraser after RCMP received a 9-1-1 call to the location at 5:25 a.m. on March 23, 2013. RCMP have interviewed a number of people but no charges have yet been laid in relation to the incident.
RCMP held a press conference in Fraser Lake earlier today, revealing little about the details of the case, but allowing Destiny Tom’s mother Vivian Tom the opportunity to make a plea for information.
RCMP believe there was a gathering at the residence the night before Tom’s body was discovered and while RCMP are continuing to investigate, they also believe a number of those at the party have yet to speak to police.
“We’re still missing that one piece of the puzzle that can bring closure,” said North District RCMP spokesperson Lesley Smith. She then gave the floor to Vivian Tom, who gave a tearful statement pleading for people to come forward.
“Our lives have forever been changed with the loss of our youngest child,” she said. “Destiny was a beautiful, caring and loving person. She was a loving mother to our three-year-old granddaughter Cassidy. Destiny loved life, loved people and had many friends that loved her.”
“Whoever is responsible for Destiny’s death is still out there … my husband, children and especially our three-year-old granddaughter deserve closure to this horrific nightmare. We are not sleeping and have difficulty eating.”
Please come forward with the truth, we ask you to help our family understand this and more importantly that justice is served for Destiny and little Cassidy.”
“If we haven’t spoken to you, please come forward,” said Smith after Destiny’s mother spoke. “Her daughter needs closure, when she’s old enough to understand, she’ll want closure, I’m sure.”
Anyone with information about this incident are asked to contact the Fraser Lake RCMP at (250) 699-7777. Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so by calling Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Smith said those who feel they are in danger can access programs to help them via the investigators as well.
