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Major crime unit helping in search for missing woman, 18

The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit has been brought in to work with Ladysmith RCMP on the case of a missing 18-year-old woman. Island District RCMP spokesman Cpl.
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Delores (Deedee) Brown has not been seen since July 27, 2015.

The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit has been brought in to work with Ladysmith RCMP on the case of a missing 18-year-old woman.

Island District RCMP spokesman Cpl. Darren Lagan said Delores (Deedee) Brown was last seen July 27 on Penelakut Island, where she lives. The island, formerly known as Kuper Island, is a short ferry ride from Chemainus.

Lagan said Brown does not have a history of disappearing “so there’s no concerning lifestyle pattern that would make this a normal event for her.”

“It is very unusual. That raises the family concern and our concern, as well.”

A public plea for help in locating Brown was issued on July 30. “As that time gets longer, of course our concern levels rise for the involvement of foul play,” Lagan said.

Police, community members and search-and-rescue teams have scoured the area, a First Nations reserve and home to several hundred members of the Penelakut Band.

Lagan said it is not known whether Brown left Penelakut Island. “It’s one of those questions that we’re still trying to figure out, so our appeal for information goes beyond Penelakut because there’s a chance she may have come to the main body of Vancouver Island.”

Brown is First Nations, about five-foot-six and 120 pounds. She was last seen wearing blue jeans and a hoodie, and carrying a backpack.

Ladysmith RCMP ask anyone with information about Brown to call them at 250-245-2215 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

— With a file from The Canadian Press