Manitoba RCMP renewing calls for help to solve 38-year-old cold case

Manitoba RCMP is asking the public for help in trying to solve the cold case of Betsy Owens. CTV’s Jeff Keele has more.

Mounties in Manitoba have launched a tip line to solve a case that has haunted Pauingassi First Nation for decades.

In October 1988, 15-year-old Betsy Rosa Owens went missing and was never found. RCMP believe she was murdered.

They say witnesses saw her leave a school dance against her will, and she was then taken to a home and vanished.

Const. Shaylyn Brazier from the RCMP Major Crimes Services said they feel as time has passed more people are willing to come forward.

“We do believe that there are key people in that community that know a lot more information that can help us solve this case,” said Brazier.

And she said some have already stepped up.

“This has bugged them for a long, long time, and they feel it’s the right thing to do. We’ve had a couple people that have never spoken to anyone before and now they’re coming forward.”

RCMP produced a video, featuring family and others from Pauingassi, on the need for answers and closure. Betsy’s sister Sally is one of the speakers.

“I just want to say to the people of Pauingassi, all I want is my sister to come rest beside family,” said Sally Owens.

Brazier said they believe the person or persons responsible for Betsy’s disappearance and death were from the community of 700.

“There were arrests back then in the 90s, not enough to proceed with charges,” said Brazier.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Manitoba RCMP Historical Case Unit Tip Line at 204-984-5604.