After more than four months of uncertainty, the search for 14-year-old Samuel Bird has come to a tragic close. The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) confirmed on Thursday that the remains of the missing teen were discovered in a rural area outside the city. Authorities have charged 38-year-old Bryan Farrell with second-degree murder in connection with the case.
Samuel, a member of the Paul First Nation, was last seen on June 1, when he left his home in west Edmonton to visit a friend. His disappearance sparked a widespread search that brought together family, volunteers, and community members across Alberta.
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Mother Confirms Son’s Death
Samuel’s mother, Alanna Bird, shared the devastating news on social media, expressing both heartbreak and gratitude toward those who supported her family during the long search.
“We finally have Samuel home,” she wrote. “Thank you to everyone who helped us, prayed with us, and never stopped looking.”
Charges Filed
Police confirmed that Farrell faces multiple charges, including:
Second-degree murder
Interfering with a body
Aggravated assault
Arson to property with disregard for human life
Unauthorized possession of a firearm
Assaulting a peace officer with a weapon
Uttering threats
Fraud over $5,000
Investigators linked Farrell to a west Edmonton home Samuel visited the night he went missing. A search warrant was executed at the property on September 18, and less than two weeks later, it was destroyed in a suspicious fire.
EPS said Farrell is the sole suspect in the case and no other individuals are being sought.
“This was a long and complex investigation,” said Det. Jared Buhler from the EPS Homicide Section. “We hope this brings some form of closure to Samuel’s loved ones.”
A Community in Mourning
The discovery of Samuel’s remains has deeply affected the Paul First Nation and the wider Edmonton community.
Tiera Williams, one of the search organizers, said the news was heartbreaking.
“We never stopped searching. I just wish the outcome had been different.”
Timeline of Key Events
June 1 – Samuel leaves home to visit a friend.
June 1 (8:30 p.m.) – Surveillance captures him near Holy Cross School in west Edmonton.
September 18 – Police search a home near 150th Street and 106th Avenue.
Late September – The same house is destroyed by fire.
Early October – Police confirm the case is criminal in nature.
October 16 – Samuel’s remains are located; Farrell is arrested.
Ongoing Investigation
EPS continues to gather forensic evidence and has not yet disclosed how Samuel died. Investigators said the homicide team remains active in the case.
Vigils and Calls for Justice
Plans are underway for community vigils in Edmonton and on the Paul First Nation to honor Samuel’s memory. Leaders and family members have called for justice and stronger protection for Indigenous youth.
“Samuel was full of light and love,” a relative said. “He didn’t deserve this.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.