The Edmonton Police Service Homicide Section continues to investigate the disappearance of 14-year-old Samuel Bird, who has now been officially presumed dead. Detectives believe his death was the result of foul play.
Samuel was last seen on June 1, 2025, around 8:30 p.m., captured on surveillance video walking through the grounds of Holy Cross School near 151 Street and 104 Avenue. He was later seen at a friend’s home near 150 Street and 106 Avenue, the last confirmed sighting of him. In September, police executed a search warrant at that residence as part of the investigation.
Detectives believe the person or people responsible disposed of Samuel’s body within a short time after he went missing, likely no more than 150 kilometres outside of Edmonton. Investigators suspect the body was hidden on land and efforts were made to prevent it from being discovered.
“We believe Samuel’s body was disposed of on land, and that steps were taken to conceal the body to avoid detection,” says primary investigator Det. Jared Buhler, with the EPS Homicide Section. “We are appealing to the public, and in particular, landowners, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who may frequent rural areas to be on the lookout for Samuel’s remains.”
Police have already carried out three searches using specialized teams and canine units, though these efforts were initially kept confidential for investigative reasons. More targeted searches may follow as investigators work to narrow down the potential location of Samuel’s remains.
Update: On Oct. 15, 2025, Bryan Farrell, 38, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder and interfering with a body in relation to the homicide of 14-year-old Samuel Bird. Farrell is also charged with 13 other offences, including:
- aggravated assault (x2),
- arson to property with disregard for human life (x2),
- arson to property, unauthorized possession of a firearm,
- possession of a dangerous weapon (x2),
- assault peace officer with weapon (x3),
- uttering threats and fraud over $5000.
On Oct. 16, 2025, investigators located the remains of Samuel Bird in a rural area outside of Edmonton.
Police said Bryan Farrell is the only person arrested and charged in the homicide. At this time, police are not looking for other suspects in relation to the murder.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Edmonton Police at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile device. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477