SCO Calls for Help in Identifying Indigenous Woman Found in August 2024

Press Release

If you need immediate emotional support, please call the national independent toll-free support line for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two spirit, and gender-diverse people (MMIWG2S+).

You can speak with a counsellor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 1-844-413-6649

Winnipeg, MB — In August 2024, a woman was found deceased at the Manwin Hotel.

The investigation by the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) determined the woman’s death was not criminal in nature.

In September 2024, the WPS issued a public appeal for assistance in identifying her.

One year later, she remains unidentified.

The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is joining Giganawenimaanaanig and the WPS in renewing a call for help from the community in the hope of finding her family and returning her home.

As this week is the anniversary of her death, SCO is calling for help from the community. Please share this information with your networks, families, and communities.

In ceremony, the deceased woman was gifted the name Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe by Grandmother Thelma Denima Morrisseau, from a request made by Sergeant Ashley Hartle of the WPS.

The WPS has also provided an updated and more detailed sketch.

Description:

• Indigenous woman, about 25 to 40 years old
• Shoulder-length dark hair and brown eyes
• About 5 foot 7 with a slender build
• Last seen wearing black pants with a bright yellow stripe, a grey BENCH hoodie, and black running shoes
• Carried a blue/grey Roots brand carry-on suitcase and a tan purse

Identifying features:

• Metal plate with screws attached to her clavicle (visible externally in the sketch)
• No remaining upper teeth; all lower teeth intact
• Noticeable papilloma above her left eyebrow
• Two small tattoos: “SN” on her right wrist and “SS” on the back of her right hand and near the base of her thumb

Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe has been waiting to be reunited with her loved ones, and your help is vital in finding her family.

Contact information for tips:

Winnipeg Police Service Missing Persons Unit:

Phone: 204-986-6250

Email: WPS-missingpersons@winnipeg.ca

Reference case #: C240185249

Crime Stoppers:

Phone: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

Submit a Tip Online (anonymous)

National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains:

Email: canadasmissing-disparuscanada@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

If you are uncomfortable contacting police directly, SCO and other community organizations can support you:

SCO MMIWG2S+ Liaison:

Phone: 431-294-0366

MKO MMIWG Liaison Unit:

Phone: 204-677-1648

Ka Ni Kanichihk – Medicine Bear Counselling, Support, and Elder Services:

Phone: 204-953-5820

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