More than three months after it was confirmed her body was found in Silver Creek near Hope, B.C., Trina Hunt's family held an intimate gathering to celebrate her life.
In a video posted to the #JusticeForTrina Facebook page, dozens of family members and friends raised their glasses, thanked supporters and shared stories in continuing a sparkle that "will never fade."
"It's important to thank all of you, all of you that have given us so much support during this time," a friend of Trina's said before inviting her parents to speak to the room.
"We were so fortunate to have such support from family and friends," said Diana Ibbott, noticeably filled with emotion and grief for her 48-year-old daughter. She would've turned 49 on June 1.
"We will always have those memories, her sparkle and her laughter."
After delivering remarks himself, Trina's father Charles asked family and friends to send a message to her and shouted in unison — "We love you Trina, and miss you very much."
A tribute table was also set up with photos, #JusticeForTrina stickers and lit candles in Trina's honour.
You can view the video in full by visiting the #JusticeForTrina Facebook page.
"This was an incredibly difficult day for us. One we never imagined happening this way," the video's post explained.
"There were some happy tears but so many more sad ones. Stories turned to memories [that] were shared and the love we felt in that room was beyond measure and gave us strength so we thank you for that.
"Trina has touched so many lives, and brought so much joy to all those she met."
The celebration of life took place Aug. 7, one week after police told the Tri-City News it's investigating "every possible avenue" in Hunt's murder case.
WHAT DO WE KNOW?
Hunt's remains were found on March 29, which marked more than two months after she was first reporting missing to Port Moody police.
To date, no arrests have been made.
And publicly, any new or relevant information is being kept at arms-lengths — including the exact location where Hunt's body was found — as the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) told the Tri-City News it doesn't want any potential interference.
On June 6, the specialized RCMP division executed search warrants at two homes — one on Heritage Mountain in Port Moody and one in Mission where a vehicle was taken for evidence.
Since then, police continue to emphasize the need for the public to submit any and all tips.
"Even if they feel that a tip is dated or old, to please call us to make sure. We will review it against the information we’ve already received," Sgt. David Lee said.
"The public has greatly assisted in the initial part of the investigation and continue to do so now. Their contributions to the search and canvassing was invaluable. If anyone uncovers any information or evidence, we ask them to call IHIT. There are procedures, protocols, and legalities that the police have to follow to gather the evidence. If the public is unaware of these issues, they may taint the evidence or cause it to become inadmissible."
Lee also said various leads are being pursued as the public has provided "numerous tips" since a $50,000 reward for information, arrest and possible charges was announced by Hunt's family.
"We are unable to divulge those specifics as doing so may put the success/outcome of these strategies at risk. IHIT investigators are looking at every possible avenue. Strategies developed internally by investigators, and even leads from the public, are being assessed and followed-up on."
In the meantime, Hunt's family continues to urge the person responsible for her murder to come forward.
"You have senselessly taken Trina’s life and have ruined so many others," said family spokesperson Stephanie Ibbott in a video statement.
"Own up to your actions and accept the consequences. It’s the least you can do. We all know you’re out there and our family and the community will continue fighting for answers. And while, painfully, nothing will bring Trina back, our family will get justice for Trina. Trina and all women deserve nothing less."
Anyone with details or tips regarding Hunt's murder can call IHIT at 1-877-551-4448 or email [email protected].
Anonymous tipsters can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477.
