The identity of a body discovered near Pembroke has been confirmed as that of an Ottawa man who had been missing since last year, according to Ontario Provincial Police.
After months of uncertainty and searching, the remains found in April near the Ottawa River have been identified as 36-year-old Zachary Mitchell, who disappeared from Ottawa’s west end in November 2023.
The discovery brings a tragic conclusion to what began as a missing person case that left family and friends desperately searching for answers through the winter months.
Mitchell was last seen on November 19 in the Bayshore area, according to Ottawa Police reports from the time. His disappearance prompted extensive search efforts throughout the region as concerns grew with each passing day.
“This is obviously not the outcome anyone was hoping for,” said OPP Inspector Tina Chalk in a statement released yesterday. “Our thoughts are with Mr. Mitchell’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
The remains were discovered on April 12 by a hiker in a wooded area approximately three kilometers from the Ottawa River shoreline near Pembroke. Due to the condition of the remains, identification required specialized forensic analysis, which is why confirmation took several weeks.
While police have confirmed the identity, they have not yet released information about the cause of death. The investigation remains active as authorities work to piece together Mitchell’s final movements and the circumstances surrounding his death.
Ottawa Police Service, who handled the initial missing person investigation, are now working collaboratively with OPP’s Upper Ottawa Valley detachment on the case.
Residents of the Bayshore community where Mitchell lived expressed their sadness at the news. “Everyone was hoping he’d just turn up one day,” said Caroline Brennan, who participated in community search efforts last winter. “It’s heartbreaking to know he won’t be coming home.”
Mitchell worked as an IT specialist and was described by friends as “kind-hearted” and “always willing to help others.” A small memorial has begun to form near his former apartment building as news of the confirmation spreads.
Family members have requested privacy during this difficult time but released a brief statement through their lawyer thanking the community for their support during the search efforts.
Anyone with information that might assist investigators is urged to contact the OPP or Crime Stoppers. Police are particularly interested in any sightings of Mitchell between November 19 and 22, 2023, which might help establish a timeline of his movements after his disappearance.
The investigation serves as a somber reminder of the approximately 7,500 Canadians who remain missing across the country at any given time, according to Statistics Canada data.
Community support services have been made available for those affected by this tragic news, including the Distress Centre of Ottawa, which provides 24-hour crisis support.
