Human Remains Confirmed - No Foul Play Suspected
Human remains identified as missing Salmon Arm woman Deanna Wertz
This is a follow-up to the story published September 15, 2026: Read it Here
September 21, 2026 Vernon/Salmon Arm - The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP has identified human remains found last week as those of Deanna Mildred Wertz, who disappeared from the Yankee Flats area nearly 10 years ago.
On Sunday, September 13, around 12:30 p.m., police responded to a report of suspected human remains in the 2000-block of Yankee Flats Road in Salmon Arm. Civilian dog trainers working in thick woods made the discovery.
The remains were recovered and later positively identified as Wertz.
Wertz, then 46, was last seen at her residence on Yankee Flats Road on July 19, 2016. That morning she told family by phone she was going for a hike without her dog, which was unusual. She left without personal possessions, cash, or identification.
She was reported missing on July 22, 2016. The surrounding terrain is steep and mountainous with multiple trail systems.
RCMP say criminality is not suspected in her death.“This investigation has remained active for many years, and we recognize how difficult this has been for her family and those who knew and loved her,” said Constable Chris Terleski, media relations officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. “While this is not the outcome anyone had hoped for, we hope that finding Deanna brings some measure of closure and we extend our sincerest condolences to her family.”
Out of respect for the family, no additional details will be released.
Wertz was described as an avid hiker. Police had previously said they believed she went for a walk in the wooded area near her home and had not been seen since.
Human Remains Confirmed - No Foul Play Suspected
Comments