The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a male who was found deceased in Nanaimo on Sept. 28, 2014.

He was Jacques Marcien Bonenfant, aged 80, of Nanaimo.

Mr. Bonenfant had been reported missing on April 11, 2013, by staff from the retirement home where he was residing after he failed to return from a walk. He had not been seen since.

On Sept. 28, 2014, a passerby walking in Barsby Park in central Nanaimo spotted what appeared to be human remains at the edge of the Millstone River where it flows through the park, at the bottom of a steep bank. The passerby was able to confirm the sighting through photography and immediately notified authorities. Further testing has confirmed the identity as Mr. Bonenfant.

The BC Coroners Service continues to investigate this death. Foul play has now been ruled out.

The family of Mr. Bonenfant has been notified of his death. On behalf of the family, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

For further information, please contact:

Matt Brown
Regional Coroner, Island Region
BC Coroners Service
250 356-9133