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Body of Crystal Ratvay found on Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford

The 33-year-old was found Wednesday afternoon after having been missing since Tuesday, Sept. 9
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Crystal Ratvay

The body of missing woman Crystal Ratvay was found Wednesday afternoon on Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford.

Const. Ian MacDonald said a citizen spotted Ratvay's car – a 1997 green Plymouth Neon with licence plate 004 NRL – parked off road on Sumas Mountain at about 3:30 p.m.

MacDonald said the vehicle was found on a gravel road located off a paved street in the Dawson Road area.

The citizen immediately called police, who arrived on scene and found Ratvay deceased inside.

MacDonald said there was no indication of foul play, and police will continue working with the BC Coroners Service to determine the exact cause of death.

"This is a tragic outcome for family, friends and our community. The Abbotsford Police Department offers condolences to all of Crystal's loved ones," he said.

MacDonald said her family, who has requested privacy, wishes to thank everyone for the support and caring they have received since Ratvay was reported missing.

The 33-year-old woman was last seen on Tuesday, Sept. 9 as she drove away from her parents' home in Abbotsford.

Police issued a press release, including a description and photo of Ratvay's vehicle, and asked for the public's help in trying to find her.

In the days after her disappearance, she had not contacted family or friends, had not made any banking transactions, and was not active on social media.

Ratvay's mom, dad, brother and sister-in-law held a press conference on Tuesday outside of the Abbotsford Police Department, where they issued an appeal for the public to watch for Ratvay and/or her car.

Her brother, Adam, indicated that Ratvay had been suffering from depression, due to debilitating pain she had been experiencing since 2005.



Vikki Hopes

About the Author: Vikki Hopes

I have been a journalist for almost 40 years, and have been at the Abbotsford News since 1991.
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