RCMP have confirmed the discovery of a body off the roadway of Highway 19, approximately 1.5 km south of Hamm Road.
Cpl.Darren Lagen, media relations officer for the Island District said in a press release, police found the adult body around 9 a.m. Friday morning in a ditch. The area surrounding the body was immediately cordoned off, including one lane of the highway to ensure the safety of officers at the scene.
As of 1 p.m., officers remained at the scene, and the two lane highway will remain closed throughout the day.
Southbound traffic from Campbell River is being diverted south to Hamm Road, and on to Highway 19A.
Lagen confirmed the BC Corner Service is involved, and has attended the scene. The identity and cause of death remain under investigation.
"As details surrounding this death are confirmed by the BC Corners Service, we will adjust the direction of our investigation, as appropriate," he noted.
Investigators from the Comox Valley RCMP, Campbell River RCMP, RCMP Air Services, RCMP Forensic Identification Section and the Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit are involved.
Investigators note they are aware of a recent missing person case, involving 33-year-old Elizabeth Marie Lagis of Kingcome Inlet, who was last seen on March 7, in Campbell River. Her disappearance, along with any other missing person cases, will be examined by investigators as this investigation progresses.
Anyone who witnessed anything unusual in recent days, on Highway 19, is asked to contact the Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221.