Approximately one year ago, on December 7, 2021, the Delta Police reported that the community of Delta tragically lost one of our youth - 17-year-old Maaike Blom. Maaike had been reported missing by her family on December 5, 2021, and was located deceased on December 7, 2021, at a south Delta residence located in the 2400 Block Falcon Way.

As a result of the circumstances surrounding Maaike’s disappearance and subsequent death, an investigation was initiated by the Delta Police Department Major Crime Section. The police investigation determined that Maaike did not die as a result of a homicide.

Over the past year, the Major Crime Section gathered evidence and information, which led to Crown Counsel approving 11 charges against Delta resident Jimmy Eely, a 22-year-old male who was known to Maaike.

On December 1, 2022, Jimmy Eely was arrested on these charges, which include Interference or Indignity to a Dead Body, multiple firearms, and drug offences. Mr. Eely appeared before the Court on December 2, 2022.

"Although the loss of Maaike will be eternal, we hope that an arrest in this matter brings some form of solace to Maaike’s family, friends, and the community. We acknowledge that there is still a long road of healing ahead for everyone involved in this tragic situation," said Deputy Chief Harj Sidhu, Officer in Charge of Operations. "The complexity of the investigation has taken some time to reach this point, and we appreciate the patience and support of the Blom family and extend our heartfelt condolences to them as they continue to process the loss of their daughter, Maaike."

The Delta Police Department will not make any further comments on the details of this investigation as the file is now before the courts.