IHIT deployed to Chilliwack after body of 37-year-old female found behind former Canadian Tire building

CHILLIWACK — IHIT detectives have confirmed that the body of a 37-year-old female was found over the long weekend in Chilliwack.

According to a statement from IHIT spokesperson Sgt. Freda Fong, Chilliwack RCMP responded on Monday, April 21, 2025 at about 11 a.m. for the report of a suspicious occurrence in the 7500 block of Vedder Road. Upon arrival, first responders discovered the body of a deceased female and the area was closed off for further investigation.

Based on the initial assessment by the Chilliwack RCMP Serious Crimes Unit in conjunction with the Integrated Forensic Identification Service (IFIS), the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) team was called out.

IHIT has since determined that the deceased female was victim of a homicide and has assumed conduct of the investigation. IHIT continues to work in close partnership with Chilliwack RCMP, IFIS and the BC Coroners Service to advance this investigation. Investigators are in the area completing an extensive ground search for evidence and canvassing for witnesses and video.

IHIT is identifying the victim as 37-year-old Chantelle Ruhl of Chilliwack in an effort to advance this case. Ms. Ruhl was of no fixed address and known to frequent the area where her body was found.

“It is essential for investigators to establish a timeline leading up to Ms. Ruhl’s death,” says Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT. “We believe there are people who have information about Ms. Ruhl’s movements between Wednesday, April 16, 2025 and Monday, April 21, 2025, and it is important for us to talk to them.”

Any witnesses or anyone with dash-camera footage who was in the area of the 7500 block of Vedder Road during this timeframe is urged to contact IHIT by calling the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.