Remains of Missing Teen Samuel Bird Found, man Charged with Murder
Edmonton, AB – the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) announced Thursday the revelation of the remains of 14-year-old Samuel Bird, who had been missing since June 1st. A man has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with his death.
Samuel’s mother, Alanna Bird, first shared the news of the discovery on social media. Police confirmed the remains were located in a rural area outside of Edmonton.
Bryan Farrell, 38, was arrested Wednesday and faces a charge of second-degree murder, and also interfering with a body. He is also facing a total of 14 charges,including aggravated assault,arson with disregard for human life,unauthorized possession of a firearm,assault of a peace officer with a weapon,uttering threats,and fraud exceeding $5,000.
Investigators stated they are not seeking any other suspects in Samuel’s death and Farrell is the sole individual charged in the case.
Samuel, a member of Paul First Nation, was last seen leaving his west Edmonton home on June 1st to visit a friend. Surveillance footage captured him walking through the grounds of Holy Cross School in the city’s west end around 8:30 p.m. that evening. police previously searched the home of a friend near 150th Street and 106th Avenue in September as part of their investigation.
Earlier this month, the EPS declared the disappearance a criminal matter, stating they believed Samuel was deceased and his body had been concealed outside city limits.
“After a lengthy and complex investigation, we are pleased to be able to conclude this file and hopefully bring some measure of resolution and justice to Samuel’s loved ones, who have been searching tirelessly for him,” said Detective Jared Buhler of the EPS homicide section in a released statement.
