RCMP release name of person killed in possible hit-and-run near Merritt

Buddy Rhodes’ body was found off to the side of the Coquihalla Highway almost one year ago.

The 24-year-old was hit while standing or walking at the side of Highway 5 near Exit 286 on Aug. 30, 2024, according to an RCMP media release. His body was found six days later.

Police have not found the vehicle or the driver.

RCMP have released Rhodes’ identity on the one-year anniversary of his death, along with a video plea from his sister Alix Legouffe, in the hope witnesses or the driver will come forward.

“The last year has been really tough on all of us, going through the first birthdays, the first Christmas,” Legouffe said in the video. “If you know something and you haven’t told someone, please come forward. Our family needs the closure. We need some answers, not just what-ifs.”

BC Highway Patrol spokesperson Cpl. Michael McLaughlin said investigators are open to hearing another side of the story from the driver who may not know they hit Rhodes.

“We need to solve this mystery for Buddy’s family,” he said in the release.

If you know what happened, or you know someone who does, call BC Highway Patrol in Merritt at 250-378-4262 and quote file (2100) 2024-4262.