Whistler remains identified as missing Australian teen

Human remains discovered last month in Whistler have been identified as belonging to a missing Australian teen.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team says the death of 19-year-old Jake Brian Kermond is being treated as “suspicious” though has not yet been determined to be a murder.

Kermond was last seen about 7:30 p.m. on April 26, 2015 when he left the Adara Hotel after extending his stay until April 28.

He was reported missing by hotel staff on April 30.

He was last seen wearing a baggy green jacket, dark pants and a black and white baseball cap.

Sgt. Stephanie Ashton said IHIT “worked closely with the B.C. Coroners Service in an attempt to positively identify the body” found on June 17.

She said Kermond had been staying in Whistler since March 2015.

“Although Jake’s death remains suspicious, foul play has yet to be confirmed,” she said. “Police are asking anyone with information to come forward, particularly those who knew Jake in the days preceding his disappearance and ultimately his death.”

A number of items belonging to Mr. Kermond have not been found, including some personal items containing identification, as well as his Armada skis with blue and orange bindings, she said.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation can call the IHIT tipline by calling 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email at ihittipline@rcmp-grc.gc.ca .

Kermond was an avid skier and mountain biker who posted photos and videos of his trips on both youtube and Facebook.

His last Facebook post is a photo of him on March 9 at the top of a mountain on skies.

He belonged to a Facebook group called Whistler Party Animals, which was advertising several events at pubs and clubs in the ski resort on the evening of Friday, April 26.