RCMP announced at a news conference on Friday that they’re looking for Travis Edward Vader as a “person of interest” in the case of Lyle McCann, 78 and his wife, Marie McCann, 77, who have been missing since July 3, 2010.
"A person of interest might be a witness, it might be someone who becomes a suspect, it might be someone who becomes an accused. It is a person that we feel can provide us with information to further this investigation." said Assistant Commissioner Peter Hourihan said at the news conference, adding that Vader became a person of interest in the last 24 hours.
Vader is described by police as dangerous, and they say they are trying to locate him.
"We assume the worst and hope for the best." Assistant Commissioner Hourihan said.
Vader is a known drug dealer and could be in possession of fire arms. He has multiple outstanding warrants. He is 38 years old and has no fixed address, but his Facebook page says he’s a Summerland, B.C. resident. His occupation is listed as self employed “drilling consultant.”
If you see Vader you should not approach him, but contact police or Crimestoppers.
The McCann’s son Bret was not at Friday’s news conference, but he talked to Global News later about the mixed feelings he has about the announcement.
"It’s a bit scary that this bad guy seems to be involved….I’m just glad to see this progress. I consider it progress."
RCMP have received some criticism over their handling of the investigation. Police have revealed that the couple’s motorhome had been found five days before the couple was reported missing.
According to RCMP Sgt. Patrick Webb, finding the motorhome did not result in an immediate investigation. Since vehicle thefts – even of motorhomes – are not uncommon, police did not investigate extensively, Webb says what was done next will be given particular scrutiny.
“There were some steps taken trying to get in contact with the registered owner,” said Webb. “This is what we’re looking into, what was done next and was it done adequately.”
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