Virgin River actor Stewart McLean, 45, was reported missing earlier this week. Police later identified his remains in the Lions Bay area, about a day after authorities said they believed he may have been the victim of a homicide.
Stewart McLean’s last known day was May 15, and by the following week his disappearance had pulled friends, fans, and family into a search that ended with the worst kind of update.
The actor, 45, was first reported missing earlier this week. Police then confirmed that his remains were identified roughly one day after authorities announced they believed Stewart McLean may have been the victim of a homicide.
On Friday, May 22, Canada’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) shared a media release with People confirming that Stewart McLean’s remains were found in the Lions Bay area.
McLean was last seen at his residence in the British Columbia village on Friday, May 15. Three days later, on May 18, the Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police (Squamish RCMP) received a missing person report, setting an investigation in motion that would widen quickly.
“As the investigation continues to unfold, homicide investigators are working to collect and analyze evidence, review CCTV footage and conduct interviews to build a timeline of Mr. McLean‘s activities prior to May 15, 2026,” IHIT Cpl. Esther Tupper said in a press statement.
The statement also said investigators are “pursuing all available leads” as authorities continue working to “find answers for the family, friends and loved ones of Mr. McLean.”
Police believe the disappearance was “an isolated incident.” Earlier on Friday. the Squamish RCMP provided an update saying investigators were working closely to “advance the investigation” after authorities confirmed they had uncovered evidence leading them to believe Stewart may have been the victim of a homicide.
Stewart McLean was best known for appearing in shows including Virgin River, Arrow, and Travelers. Now. with his remains identified. the focus shifts to what investigators can piece together from the evidence—because for the people closest to him. the unanswered questions came before the final confirmation.
Stewart McLean Virgin River Arrow Travelers IHIT Squamish RCMP Lions Bay British Columbia missing person homicide investigation