An eight-year investigation into the killing of a man whose body was discovered near the dykes in Pitt Meadows has culminated in a first-degree murder charge, according to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).
Discovery of the Body
On the afternoon of April 30, 2018, Ridge Meadows RCMP received a report of a body in the 14500-block of Hale Road near the dykes in Pitt Meadows. The deceased was later identified as 43-year-old Ian Roberts of Delta. Around the same time, Langley RCMP recovered Roberts's red 1996 GMC Jimmy.
Investigation Details
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) assumed control of the case and collaborated with police departments in Pitt Meadows, Langley, Surrey, and Delta. IHIT described the probe as “lengthy and highly complex.”
“Over the past eight years, IHIT investigators were relentless in their pursuit to piece together the circumstances surrounding the murder,” said Sgt. Freda Fong in a statement. “By following the evidence trail, investigators identified key information about Mr. Roberts’s cause of death and the scene where the murder allegedly took place.”
Charges Laid
Last Thursday, 45-year-old Miikael Tattoo King — formerly known as Michael Branden Anderson — was charged with first-degree murder and obstruction of justice in connection with Roberts's homicide. Investigators believe the killing was targeted and that Roberts and his alleged killer were acquainted.
“This was a lengthy and highly complex investigation that demanded years of dedicated work by investigators who were committed to finding the answers,” said Fong. “Through meticulous examination of evidence and persistent pursuit of all available leads, the investigation has now reached a significant milestone with the laying of a first-degree murder charge. We hope this development provides some measure of comfort to the victim’s loved ones as the judicial process moves forward.”
The case continues to progress through the legal system.
