A 12-year-old boy from Edmonton has been identified after human remains were discovered in northern Alberta, with police confirming that his death is being investigated as a homicide.
The deceased has been identified as Faisal Hussein. Athabasca RCMP responded shortly before 3:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 6, after receiving a report of human remains in a rural area north of Athabasca near Calling Lake.
An autopsy was conducted on August 7 at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Edmonton. Following the examination, authorities determined that the manner of death was homicide. Faisal’s family has been notified.
The RCMP Major Crimes Unit has taken over the investigation as officers work to establish the circumstances surrounding the boy’s death and determine what led to the discovery of his remains.
Police are particularly appealing to members of the public who may have been travelling through the area during the early morning hours of August 6. Investigators are asking anyone who was near Highway 813 close to Calling Lake or Range Road 213A, also known locally as the C-Road, between midnight and 4:30 a.m. to review any available dashcam footage.
Even footage that does not initially appear significant could potentially provide investigators with an important lead. Anyone who witnessed something unusual or has information that may assist the investigation is encouraged to contact Athabasca RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
Calling Lake is located more than 200 kilometres north of Edmonton, highlighting the remote nature of the area where the discovery was made.
The death of a child has understandably caused profound sadness and concern among those who knew Faisal and within the wider community. As investigators continue their work, the family is facing an unimaginable loss.
Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of the homicide or identified a suspect based on the information available.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to come forward and assist investigators as they work to determine what happened to Faisal.
Heartfelt condolences are extended to Faisal Hussein’s family, friends, and everyone affected by this devastating loss. May his memory be remembered with dignity and compassion.