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Canada's Integrated Homicide Investigation Team announced Friday that the remains of the missing actor had been located in the Lions Bay area of British Columbia, one day after authorities first revealed they suspected foul play was involved in his disappearance.
McLean was last seen at his residence in Lions Bay on Friday, May 15. A missing person report was filed with the Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police three days later, on May 18, after he failed to make contact with those close to him. Police said at the time they were deeply concerned for his wellbeing.
Investigators moved quickly. Through evidence gathered during the missing persons inquiry, authorities determined McLean was likely the victim of a homicide and handed the case to IHIT, which assumed conduct of the investigation on Wednesday.
"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," IHIT Cpl. Esther Tupper said in a statement Friday. "We are pursuing all available leads as we work to find answers for the family, friends and loved ones of Mr. McLean."
Police believe the incident is isolated and not connected to any broader threat to the community.
News of McLean's death was met with an outpouring of grief from those who had worked with him. His talent agency of more than a decade, Lucas Talent Inc., confirmed his passing in a heartfelt statement on Facebook.
"He was always such a pleasure to deal with, dedicated, professional, eager, and endlessly funny," agent Jodi Caplan wrote. "Every message says the same thing: what a truly great guy he was, and how deeply he will be missed."
McLean was known to Canadian and international television audiences through his appearances on Virgin River, Arrow, Murder in a Small Town, Happy Face and The Irrational.
The homicide investigation remains active and ongoing.
