Based on coverage from CBC, Global News, and CityNews Vancouver.
A missing person case involving Lions Bay actor Stewart McLean has escalated into a homicide investigation, with B.C.’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team now leading the file.
Squamish RCMP say they received a missing person report on May 18 after McLean, 45, hadn’t been seen since May 15. Police initially asked the public for help locating him on May 19, citing concerns for his health and well-being. Investigators now say they’ve uncovered evidence pointing to foul play.
Lions Bay missing man case turns homicide
RCMP Sgt. Vanessa Munn said McLean was last seen at his residence in Lions Bay. After what police described as “investigative efforts,” Squamish RCMP say they found evidence leading them to believe McLean “was the victim of a homicide.”
Authorities have not said what that evidence is, and they have not confirmed where McLean is or whether a body has been found. That lack of detail is likely frustrating for neighbours and people in the film community, but it’s typical early in major cases where investigators are trying to protect leads and potential court proceedings.
Squamish RCMP and IHIT lead investigation
IHIT deployed on May 20 and assumed conduct of the investigation the same day Lions Bay Search and Rescue was out looking for McLean. Squamish RCMP say they’re continuing to work closely with IHIT, along with the Integrated Forensic Identification Service (IFIS), which supports investigations with forensic work.
IHIT handles homicides, suspicious deaths, and high-risk missing persons cases in British Columbia when police suspect foul play. When IHIT takes over, it usually signals investigators believe the case is serious and may involve complex evidence gathering across multiple locations or timelines.
Lions Bay Search and Rescue efforts May 20
Lions Bay Search and Rescue led a ground search on May 20. Search manager Maria Masiar said crews started around 9 a.m. and stood down that afternoon.
The available information doesn’t spell out exactly where teams searched or what, if anything, was found during those efforts. What is clear is the timeline: the search operation happened the same day IHIT was called in, as police moved from a welfare-style missing person file to a homicide-focused investigation.
Stewart McLean’s Vancouver film and TV work
McLean, who also went by Stew McLean, is described as an actor who worked in Vancouver’s screen industry. Reports and public postings cite roles in shows including Virgin River, Travelers, Arrow, Murder in a Small Town, and Less Than Nothing.
Police also released a physical description: McLean is 45, about five feet 10 inches tall, around 150 pounds, with grey hair and blue eyes.
What police are asking from the public
IHIT is asking anyone with information to contact investigators. The IHIT information line is 1-877-551-IHIT (4448). Tips can also be sent by email to ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
For people in Lions Bay, Squamish, and the broader Sea-to-Sky corridor, the key thing right now is timing and details: if you saw McLean, his vehicle, or anything unusual around May 15, police want to hear from you, even if it seems minor.
Support Independent Canadian News Analysis
The Canada Report is supported by readers like you. If this article helped you understand what’s happening, you can support our work with a one-time tip.
Support The Canada Report
