RCMP seek tips after identifying human remains
A DNA match and other forensic evidence have led RCMP investigators to conclude a human skull found in the Rural Municipality of Morris, Sask., in February 2021 belonged to an Alberta woman who was last seen in Red Deer, Alta., in January 2021.
Kassandra Jorquera, 27, had not been reported missing, RCMP said in a news release on Thursday.
Her remains were found on Feb. 28, 2021 by people who were looking for shed antlers in a field.
“In March 2022, investigators enlisted the assistance of a forensic genealogy firm. Using DNA, the experts were able to determine the deceased individual had closely-related relatives in the Red Deer, Alta., area,” Thursday's news release said.
Further forensic work allowed investigators to “conclusively determine” her identity, it added.
“Major crimes continues to investigate the circumstances of Kassandra's death, which investigators have determined is suspicious in nature. Investigators want to speak with anyone who has information about Kassandra's death, or has knowledge of her activities in and around January 2021.
“Kassandra often frequented Red Deer and is known to have been there in January 2021. She also visited Grande Prairie periodically. Her connection to Saskatchewan is unknown at this time.”
She was described as about 5-foot-5, weighing about 120 pounds with shoulder-length, dark brown hair and brown eyes. Family members said she had “beautiful teeth,” RCMP said.
“Since February 2021, we've worked diligently to identify the person located deceased. We now know it's Kassandra. Our work continues: we need to retrace all of her steps in January 2021,” said Saskatchewan RCMP major crimes Sgt. Ryan Boogaard.
“I know it was some time ago, but we're asking people — particularly in the Red Deer area — to take a look at her picture and think back. Did you know Kassandra? Did you speak with her or encounter her in the weeks after New Year's 2021? You may have a piece of the puzzle that will help us determine what happened to her in those final weeks of her life.”
Anyone with information on Jorquera's death or whereabouts in and around January 2021 should contact the RCMP at 639-6254535. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or saskcrimestoppers.com.