Police identify murder victim found near Penticton

PENTICTON – RCMP have released the identity of the homicide victim whose body was found south of Penticton last week.

Police say the body of Dean Jefferey Gillette, 27, of Kelowna was discovered beside Willowbrook Road near Kaleden on Jan. 17.

Following an autopsy, the pathologist's preliminary report says Gillette died from a gunshot wound, according to a RCMP media release.

RCMP still have the crime scene, just south of the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, secured as the investigation continues.

Investigators continue to probe a pickup truck fire on Highway 3A in the early morning hours on the same day Gillette's body was discovered to see if there is a connection to his murder.

"No arrests have been made in relation to Gillette’s murder, however, investigators believe Gillette was the target of this homicide," Cpl. Janelle Shoihet says in the release.

Police continue working to determine Gillette’s whereabouts in the evening and morning leading up to the time his body was discovered Jan. 17.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Penticton RCMP at 250-492-4300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

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