The family of a woman allegedly murdered by accused serial killer Cody Legebokoff took steps this week to gain closure on her loss and at the same time issue a plea for the public's help in gathering more information.
Although Legebokoff has been charged with the murder of Natasha Lynn Montgomery, 23, as well as three other women, her body has never been found and her family held a smudging ceremony Monday in the apartment at 1433-15th Ave., near Liard Drive, where police believe she was killed.
"The loss of Natasha has had a very devastating impact on our family," the family said in a statement. "It is hard enough to accept the fact she is gone, let alone not having the ability to lay her to rest. We need her back to help in our family's healing process."
Montgomery, from Quesnel, was last seen around Third Avenue and Queensway Street in late August 2010. When she failed to connect with her family after a number of weeks, they contacted the RCMP to report her missing.
In October 2011, Legebokoff was charged with first degree murder in her disappearance as well as the deaths of Jill Stacey Stuchenko, 35, Cynthia Frances Maas, 35.
By that time, Legebokoff was already in custody, charged with the first degree murder of Loren Dawn Leslie, 15, after he was pulled over between Fort St. James and Vanderhoof on in November 2010 and a subsequent search of a wooded area uncovered Leslie's body.
"While Cody Legebokoff has been charged and will be tried for the death of Natasha, we still need to know where she is in order to give her family the dignity of a proper burial", said North District RCMP Cst. Lesley Smith "She was a beautiful, loving and caring person. Her family wants to bring her home. Anyone who may know where Natasha is needs to contact police."
Legebokoff's case remains before the court. A ban on publication has been issued for proceedings leading up to the trial.
Police are asking anyone with any information to call the specially created Tip Line 1-877-987-8477 (TIPS).
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