Penticton homicide victim, 22, fondly remembered by friends and family

The Penticton man whose body was found on a high school field in early September is being remembered for being a gentle soul.

The body of Taig Savage, 22, was found in the early hours of Sept. 5, and police released his identity Monday in an attempt to gain more insight into what led to his death.

His mother, Tracy Savage, told Global News her son loved his dog, Cooper, and was involved in the construction industry.

“Our world lost a great person — someone who would have helped anyone,” she wrote.

“The most non-judgmental being I had ever encountered,” she said of her son.

“As a mom, this was a good thing and a bad thing — generous beyond belief.”

His former restaurant industry colleagues are also grieving his loss.

“We are just shattered. He was a lovely and kind young man. He was just a sweetheart. We had nothing but respect for him,” Shannon Ferlizza of Zias Stonehouse Restaurant in Summerland said.

“He was a hard worker, he was dedicated. We loved him. He was a kind, gentle soul.”

Ferlizza said that Savage worked at their restaurant when he was in high school. He hadn’t worked there in a while and they were shocked by the news.

“We are releasing Taig’s identity and photos in hopes that it will assist in our investigation,” Supt. Brian Hunter, officer in charge of the Penticton RCMP, said in a press release.

1:29 Young man’s body found at Penticton high school

“Our Investigators are seeking the assistance of the public and ask that if anyone has information or witnessed this incident to contact the Penticton RCMP.”

Taig was last seen in the 100 block of Eckhart Avenue on foot wearing a hooded sweatshirt and grey pants.

Police wish to speak to anyone who saw him in the area in the early morning hours of Sept. 5, or who had any contact with him throughout the night and early morning hours.

He was found just before 6 a.m. on Labour Day by a passerby.

Penticton RCMP were called to assist BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) with a report of an unresponsive person down, at a field located in the 100 block of Eckhart Avenue.

The man sustained critical injuries and was transported to a local area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A memorial has since been set up at the Pen High track in his memory.

Tracy said her son will be remembered for always defending the underdog.

“He was hardworking, dedicated, and loyal,” she said.

If anyone has information or witnessed this incident, they are asked to contact the Penticton RCMP at 250-492-4300.