Friday, October 4, 2024

Major Crimes Unit joins investigation into disappearance of missing Port Alberni woman

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The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit (VIIMCU) has now been called to assist the Port Alberni RCMP in the disappearance of Amber Manthorne.

Manthorne has not been seen or heard from since July 6th. She was reported missing to Port Alberni RCMP on Thursday July 8th.

Over the weekend, Manthorne’s family took to social media in hopes the public could help locate her, believing she may be in danger.

On Saturday, her jeep was located south of Nanaimo in Cassidy, parked off of a street, hidden in a forested area.

Manthorne is described as standing 5’1″ tall with a slim build. She has blonde hair and may be with a man known to her. A specific age was not released but both are believed to be about 40 years of old.

According to friends and family, her last GPS location was in the Cameron Lake area. Family described the situation as “serious” and said they believe she is with her former boyfriend, Justin Hall.

A close friend of Manthorne said the couple had recently broken up. When she failed to show up for work, her friends became concerned.

See more: Family issue plea for missing Port Alberni woman who may be in danger

“We understand that it may be concerning to hear that the VIIMCU has been called to assist, however we want to assure the community that this is not unusual, in cases where a person’s disappearance is out of character and criminality can not be immediately ruled out,” said Inspector Kevin O’Donnell, Officer in Charge of VIIMCU. 

“If criminality is ruled out the Port Alberni RCMP will again become the primary investigating agency.”

VIIMCU Investigators are in Port Alberni following up on tips, conducting interviews and gathering surveillance and other video.

RCMP will continue to work with Search and Rescue teams to search viable sites such as the one south of Nanaimo where her vehicle was discovered.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Port Alberni RCMP at (250) 723-2424.

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