News release

A charge of second-degree murder has now been laid for the homicide of Jessica Cunningham

March 4, 2026 - Maple Ridge, British Columbia
From: IHIT

Content

File # 2025-921

Background:

On August 26, 2025, the Ridge Meadows RCMP were on scene at a residence in the 22800 block of Gillis Place gathering information for the ongoing missing person investigation of 43-year-old Jessica Cunningham.

Investigation led to the discovery of what appeared to be human remains inside the residence and as a result, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) was called in to investigate.

IHIT worked in close partnership with the Ridge Meadows RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services (IFIS) and the BC Coroners Service to advance the investigation.

On August 27, 2025, the BC Prosecution Service laid a charge of indignity to human remains against Mylie Barron in relation to this investigation. 

Update:

IHIT continued its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Ms. Cunningham. As a result of the evidence gathered, an additional charge of second-degree murder was recommended by IHIT investigators.

On March 3, 2026, Mr. Barron, now 48 years old, was charged with one count of second-degree murder for the homicide of Ms. Cunningham. Mr. Barron and Ms. Cunningham were in a relationship and had been residing together at the residence on Gillis Place.

Mr. Barron is currently in custody for the indignity to human remains charge which he has entered a guilty plea for. The Court is scheduled to impose sentence on March 5, 2026, for that matter.

“As with all of our investigations, it was important for IHIT investigators to continue to uncover the truth of what happened,” says Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT. “This was a tragic case, and the details have been hard to hear. Our thoughts are with Ms. Cunningham’s family and friends during this difficult time.”  

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