Vancouver police have launched an intensive search for a 21-year-old woman who was last seen in the city's Downtown Eastside on February 2, 2026. Authorities are expressing growing concern for her safety and well-being as the investigation continues.
Details of the Disappearance
According to Vancouver Police Department spokeswoman Constable Megan Lui, police were officially notified on March 6, 2026, that Shayla Ignace-Guitar had not been in contact with her family for over a month. Her family reported being deeply concerned about her welfare, prompting the police to initiate a missing persons investigation.
"We are treating this as a high-priority case," Constable Lui stated. "Shayla's family is extremely worried, and we are using all available resources to locate her and ensure she is safe."
Physical Description and Last Known Appearance
Shayla Ignace-Guitar is described as an Indigenous woman standing approximately 5-foot-6 with a slim build. She has distinctive dark collar-length hair and several visible tattoos that may help with identification:
- A scorpion tattoo on her right forearm
- Bear paw tattoos on both forearms
- A dragon tattoo on her left shoulder
When she was last seen, Shayla was wearing a purple jacket, black and white leggings, and dark shoes. Police emphasize that these clothing items could have changed since her disappearance.
Areas of Interest and Community Connections
Investigators have identified several locations where Shayla is known to frequent, including Vancouver proper, Maple Ridge, Surrey, and Coquitlam. Police are canvassing these areas and reviewing surveillance footage from businesses and public spaces.
"We believe someone in the community may have seen Shayla or have information about her whereabouts," Constable Lui emphasized. "Even the smallest detail could be crucial to this investigation."
Public Appeal for Information
Vancouver police are making a direct appeal to the public for assistance in locating Shayla Ignace-Guitar. Authorities are urging anyone who has seen Shayla since February 2, 2026, or who has any information about her current location to contact emergency services immediately.
"If you see Shayla or have any information about where she might be, please call 911 right away," Constable Lui stressed. "Time is of the essence in missing persons cases, and public cooperation can make all the difference."
The Vancouver Police Department has assigned additional resources to the case and is coordinating with neighboring law enforcement agencies. Investigators are following up on all leads and tips as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding Shayla's disappearance.
Family members have been cooperating fully with police and are said to be anxiously awaiting any news about Shayla's whereabouts. Community organizations serving the Downtown Eastside have also been alerted and are assisting with the search efforts.
