Today marks eight years since five-year-old Tamra Keepness of Regina was last seen by her family.
The investigation into her disappearance is still open, and has been taken over the Historical Case Unit.
The Regina Board of Police Commissioners has approved the extension of the $25,000 reward for information on the whereabouts of Tamra.
Police spokesperson Elizabeth Popowich says they believe someone has information which would help investigators:
“It is never too late to add information to this case — and it is never too late to do the right thing. We want the information. So, it isn’t necessary for a person to reveal his or her identity. What we need is the lead that will make all those other pieces of this case make sense. And we would like to find Tamra.”
Meanwhile, Tamra’s great aunt was gratified to see so many people show up for what has become an annual event.
A free barbecue was held in a park a few blocks from where Tamra went missing from her Regina home.
Child Find was putting up posters, members of the police service — including the chief — were there to lend support, and dozens of community members showed up to spread the word.
Marilyn Keepness says it is difficult to remain hopeful as the years pass, but she is thankful that so many people still care.
“It is positive that we’re still bringing awareness that she still is missing. But, at the same time, it’s emotional. And it’s good to see all the people here again this year — that people are remembering that she still is missing.”
Regina Police Chief Troy Hagen has made it a personal point to attend the barbecues.
Hagen says it gives him a chance to update family members about the investigation — and it also shows the department has not, nor will it, give up on this case:
“It’s very disconcerting for family and loved ones and the community as a whole — including the police service. Obviously, we want to bring closure to this matter, and we’re going to work as feverishly and as dedicated as we can as we move forward.”
Information on the Tamra Keepness case is also available on the missing persons website hosted by the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police.