The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team has taken over the case of Canadian actor Stewart McLean, whose body was discovered in the Lions Bay area of British Columbia on Friday, May 22, 2026.
The 45-year-old actor had been missing since May 18, three days after he was last seen at his Lions Bay residence, according to the Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
>>> Matt Damon in Talks to Lead New Sci-Fi Film from Daniels
Police initially expressed deep concern for his safety before uncovering evidence that shifted the missing person case into a murder investigation.
The Squamish RCMP handled the case initially before transferring control to the specialized homicide team on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Investigation Details
Forensic specialists and homicide investigators are currently analyzing closed-circuit television footage and interviewing acquaintances to reconstruct the timeline leading up to his disappearance.
The Squamish RCMP detailed the initial findings that prompted the involvement of specialized units in a press release issued on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
"Squamish RCMP initiated an investigation," the press release said, "and, through investigative efforts, uncovered evidence that led investigators to believe Mr. McLean was victim of homicide."
Officials stated they are working alongside the Integrated Forensic Identification Service to advance the case.
They urged members of the public who possess any relevant information regarding the circumstances surrounding the death to come forward immediately.
"As the investigation continues to unfold, homicide investigators are working to collect and analyze evidence, review CCTV footage and conduct interviews to build a timeline of Mr. McLean's activities prior to May 15, 2026," said Cpl.
Esther Tupper, IHIT spokesperson.
The agency stated that finding closure for the victim's family remains their primary focus as they chase down every available lead.
"We are pursuing all available leads as we work to find answers for the family, friends and loved ones of Mr. McLean," added Tupper.
>>> Three Major Streaming Platforms Launch Diverse Movie Slate Simultaneously
McLean had maintained a steady acting career since 2015, appearing in television series such as Arrow, Supernatural, and The Irrational, alongside his recent role in Virgin River.
His talent agency, Lucas Talent Inc., released a statement through representative Jodi Caplan on Facebook expressing grief over his death.
"It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved client, Stew McLean," wrote Jodi Caplan, Lucas Talent Inc. representative.
Caplan noted that her professional relationship with the late actor spanned more than a decade.
"I was fortunate to have worked with Stew for more than 10 years," added Caplan.
The agency remembered his work ethic and demeanor during his years in the entertainment industry.
"He was always such a pleasure to deal with," added Caplan, "dedicated, professional, eager, and endlessly funny!"
According to E! Online, numerous casting directors contacted the agency to offer condolences and praise the late actor's character.
"Many casting directors have reached out to share their condolences with Stew's family and with our agency," added Caplan.
The entertainment community continues to mourn the producer and actor, whose credits also included production roles on CLOUD Van-Demic!
>>> Failing Chemical Tank Forces 40,000 California Residents to Evacuate
and Please Look Away Vol. 2, as investigators continue to seek tips from the public.
