IHIT says Marrisa Shen's killer may have shown special interest in media coverage of the death

Still no arrests, nine months after 13-year-old Marrisa Shen was found dead in Burnaby's Central Park

BURNABY (NEWS 1130) – It has been nine months since 13-year-old Marrisa Shen was found dead in Burnaby’s Central Park, and there have still been no arrests. But investigators are hoping some details of a criminal profile may bring in new tips in the case.

Shen was reported missing by her family on July 18, 2017. Hours later, her body was found in the park. Her death has been deemed a random homicide.

IHIT has worked with criminal profilers, and now believe the killer may have lived near the park at the time of her death.

A surveillance image of Marrisa Shen is shown to the media on January 18, 2018. Shen, 13, went missing on July 18, 2017. She was later found dead in Burnaby’s Central Park. (Courtesy IHIT)

Investigators say the killer may have demonstrated some of the following behaviours:

Unexpectedly moved (permanently or temporarily)

Uncharacteristically avoided the Central Park area

Withdrew from social or family activities

Missed work or scheduled appointments

Showed suicidal gestures or attempts

Showed interest or special attention to the media coverage related to Marrisa death

Increased or decreased his or her drug and/or alcohol use

“There continues to be a high-degree of public interest in the homicide of Miss Shen,” says Corporal Frank Jang with IHIT. “I strongly urge anyone with information or anyone who may recognize these characteristics and behaviours in someone they know, to please come forward and speak with IHIT.”

Anyone with information is asked to call IHIT at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448). You can also email investigators at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

You can also stay anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).