Police have located the bodies of a woman and child, believed to be that of Jasmine Lovett and Aliyah Sanderson, in Kananaskis. Lovett, 25, and her 22-month-old daughter Aliyah were first reported missing in a press release issued by Calgary Police Services (CPS) April 23. The bodies were discovered at 4 a.m., May 6.
“Our family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire CPS, as well as those who have worked diligently in the search for Jasmine and her baby girl Aliyah," read a statement provided by the Lovett Family. "We would also like to thank the public for their continued support, which has meant a great deal to us. Our lives have been devastated and our hearts are heavy. We are trying to understand how this tragedy could have happened to our loved ones.”
According to a CPS press release issued May 6, the bodies were discovered in a heavily-wooded area near Grizzly Creek, located off Highway 40. Autopsies are expected to begin immediately, the release stated, and formal identification of the deceased will be done by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. However, the cause of death of both victims is not expected to be released.
A suspect has been taken into custody and charges are pending. While the suspect cannot be named by police until charges are officially laid by the Justice of the Peace, the release stated, police can confirm the suspect is the same man who was taken into custody two weeks ago.
To protect the integrity of the investigation and future court proceedings, the press release added, police are unable to release details about what lead to the discovery of the bodies.
"[CPS] would like to thank the many partner agencies, members of the public and the media for their assistance in the investigation and the search. We are grateful for the support of Calgarians," the release stated. "An update will be provided to the media and public once charges have been laid by the Justice of the Peace and the victims have been formally identified."
