Body of Calgary man missing since Sept. found in tree

The body of Justin McKinnon-Blomme has been located.

The 21-year-old, who first went missing in September of 2014, was last seen just minutes away from where the body was found today, in a tree in the neighbourhood of Acadia.

Police were called to the 9800 block of Alberni Road S.E. around 2:45 p.m. Wednesday after a resident spotted what appeared to be a man in a tree.

Acting Det. Jack Russell said the complaint told police she found a body in a large fir tree in front of her house.

She told officers she hadn’t checked the large tree for several months, Russell added.

Detectives and the Medical Examiner responded to the call and the body was removed with assistance from the Calgary Fire Department.

The body was found close to where Justin McKinnon-Blomme, who is also known as Justin Rhodes, was last seen six months ago.

The 21-year-old was last seen getting out of a friend’s car at the intersection of Acadia Drive S.E. and Southland Drive around 10:30 p.m. on Sept. 24, 2014.

His disappearance has mystified friends and family, who appealed to the public in October for information relating to the case, distributed thousands of posters across the province, and posted a $10,000 reward in January.

Police would not comment on the identity of the body on Wednesday.

When reached by telephone Wednesday evening, the family of McKinnon-Blomme asked for privacy.

On a Facebook page where family has regularly provided updates in the search for McKinnon-Blomme, they announced his death on Wednesday.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Justin. Justin was loved and cared for by many people. Words can not express how grateful we are for the support of every single person. At this time, the family is asking for some privacy as we deal with the loss of Justin. Thank you again for all of your love and support,” stated the post.

Agencies/Canadajournal