In a distressing development, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detectives probing the homicide of a St. Albert mother now suspect that the remains of her infant daughter may have been discarded in a dumpster near the crime scene. The investigation centers on the tragic death of 23-year-old Ayla Egotik-Learn, whose body was discovered on January 23, 2026, close to an apartment complex north of Edmonton.
Missing Baby Presumed Dead
Authorities quickly identified that Egotik-Learn's nine-month-old daughter, Braylee Beasley, was missing following her mother's death. After arresting Christopher William Beasley, Egotik-Learn's common-law partner, police concluded that the baby is likely deceased. Beasley faces serious charges, including two counts of indignity to a body and one count of second-degree murder related to Egotik-Learn's killing.
Public Assistance Sought in Search
RCMP have issued a public appeal for information to help narrow down the search area for Braylee's body. Investigators believe the baby's remains might have been placed in a waste disposal bin at the Sturgeon Point Villas Apartments, specifically outside door 11, between mid-September and mid-November 2025.
Police are urgently requesting tips from anyone who may have witnessed the disposal of large bedroom furniture in that bin during the same timeframe. Determining the exact timing of such disposals could significantly aid in pinpointing a potential search site, as stated in an RCMP news release.
Family's Heartbreaking Account
Ross Learn, Egotik-Learn's stepfather, shared his grief in an email, expressing regret over a missed visit last November after being told his stepdaughter was ill. He never had the chance to meet his granddaughter. Learn described Egotik-Learn, who was Inuk and had moved to St. Albert from Cambridge Bay in 2024, as "a happy new mom whose baby was the centre of her universe." He emphasized that signs of danger are not always apparent to family members.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to solve this harrowing crime and bring closure to the affected family. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the RCMP immediately to assist in the investigation.
