Body of missing Kitchener woman found in British Columbia

The body of Jaqueline McDermott, 22, of Kitchener, Ont., has been found.

RCMP confirmed to CTV News that his body was found by search and rescue teams on Saturday.

McDermott was reported missing on October 1 and, according to the RCMP, she was last seen near her vehicle after attending a meditation retreat. RCMP say her vehicle was found broken down along Highway 97C between Merritt and Logan Lake, but she was not in or near it.

It comes just days after her parents flew to British Columbia to join efforts to find their missing daughter.

Jaqui’s mother, Nathalie St-Maurice, posted a photo her daughter drew on Facebook on Sunday, along with a statement saying in part: ‘She was stubborn and funny and creative and passionate and full of joy. She was a beacon that shone in the world and brought people together. She believed in the kindness and kindness of humans above all else. She was light.

Facebook post from Jaqui’s mom, Nathalie St-Maurice. (Facebook/In loving memory of Jaqui McDermott)

The post goes on to say, « honor her with love and laughter. »

In a separate Facebook statement, Katharine Kitsemetry, a friend of the McDermott family, confirmed that Jaqui’s body had been found « after an extensive search by British Columbia Search and Rescue teams. »

“Our hearts are forever broken. Please respect our privacy as we learn to live in a world without it. Please keep her in your hearts,” Kitsemetry said in the post.

Facebook post from Katharine Kitsemetry, a friend of the McDermott family. (Facebook/In loving memory of Jaqui McDermott)

RCMP do not believe any criminal activity was involved in Jaqui’s sudden death. But the British Columbia Coroners Service was notified and opened an inquest into the death.