Trigger warning: This article contains details of murder and violence that may be disturbing for some readers.
Stewart McLean Found Dead After Going Missing
Stewart McLean, the 45-year-old actor best known for his role in the popular series 'Virgin River,' was found dead on Friday. He had been missing since May 18, after he was last seen at his home in Lions Bay, British Columbia. What initially began as a missing person case quickly escalated into a homicide investigation. On May 22, Canada's Integrated Homicide Investigation Team confirmed that McLean's remains had been located, as reported by People. The news has left many in shock, including close friends who sensed something was wrong before the official announcement.
Friend's Suspicion Before the Discovery
Following McLean's death, his friend Jeff Seymour, an acting coach and actor who had known McLean for eight years, shared his concerns. Seymour revealed that McLean missed a scheduled day of filming the previous week, which was highly unusual for the meticulous actor. Speaking to The Canadian Press, Seymour said, 'He was meticulous about everything, and there would be no chance he blew it off or slept too late. As soon as I heard he didn't make it on Saturday morning, I knew there was big trouble.'
Mourning the Loss
Expressing his grief, Seymour described the week prior as wonderful, making the news even harder to comprehend. 'It just doesn't make any sense. He was incredibly situationally aware. For the life of me, I don't know how anybody could get the drop on Stew,' he said. Seymour had met McLean just last month and is struggling to accept his friend's death. 'It's so crushing, and it hits me in ways I'll suddenly think, ah, Stu, and I realize I can't call him now,' he added.
Seymour emphasized how beloved McLean was, noting, 'Everybody loved this guy; it wasn't like he was in nefarious activities or, you know, kind of ran with another crowd. I mean, he was a bit of a loner. He spent a lot of time reading and being at his home out there in Squamish.' He concluded with a hope for justice, saying, 'I would love to see justice served.'
The investigation into McLean's death continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
