The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a male found deceased near Norvan Falls, a North Vancouver wilderness recreational area.

On May 2, 2012, hikers discovered a body in a small creek just above Norvan Falls and notified authorities. The BC Coroners Service, assisted by North Vancouver RCMP Detachment, the RCMP's Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team, Vancouver Police Missing Persons Unit and Metro Vancouver Parks Rangers undertook a complex recovery operation. At the conclusion of this operation, the body was transported to Vancouver General Hospital.

A forensic dental comparison has confirmed the remains to be those of Brian Safari Mbaruk, aged 20 years, of Vancouver.

Preliminary results from a multi-agency investigation and an autopsy indicate that Mr. Mbaruk's death was a result of a hiking accident. Foul play has been ruled out.

Mr. Mbaruk was reported missing to the Vancouver Police Department on Nov. 19, 2011, one day after he had last been seen alive. He was known to enjoy hiking in the area of Lynn Creek in North Vancouver.

The family of Mr. Mbaruk has been notified of his death. On behalf of the family, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect the family's privacy.

For further information, please contact:

Coroner Marj Paonessa
Acting Regional Coroner, Metro Region
BC Coroners Service
604 660-7708