BURNABY, B.C. - Two Burnaby residents have been charged in the death of 11-year-old Kai Pavlovic, who was reported missing more than a year ago, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) announced November 2.
On September 26, 2025, Burnaby RCMP received a request to check the well-being of Kai, who was last known to live with his family in Burnaby. Despite significant efforts over several days, police were unable to locate him, and the case was escalated to a high-risk missing person investigation led by Burnaby RCMP’s Serious Crimes Unit.
In updates last fall, Burnaby RCMP said investigators believed Kai might be staying with a caretaker unknown to police, and that an Amber Alert was not issued because the case did not meet the criteria for one. The search drew concern across Burnaby and the region as it stretched on for months.
On June 25, 2026, IHIT took over the investigation. Working with Burnaby’s Serious Crimes Unit, investigators continued efforts to locate Kai and advance the case, which ultimately led to the discovery of his remains, IHIT said. The team thanked Burnaby RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the BC Coroners Service for their help.
On October 30, 2026, IHIT investigators arrested Branko Bijelic, 51, of Burnaby. The BC Prosecution Service has approved charges of second-degree murder and indignity to human remains against him. Sarah Bijelic, 46, of Burnaby, has been charged with one count of manslaughter. The charges have not been proven in court.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share this update in the investigation into Kai’s death,” said Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT. “There are no words to accurately express the sadness surrounding the circumstances.”
“We recognize the concern this investigation has caused within the community, and our thoughts are with Kai’s loved ones and those affected by this tragedy. We thank the public for their assistance and for coming forward with information,” Fong said. “The laying of charges marks a significant milestone following more than a year of investigation. While this is an important development, our work continues as the case moves through the prosecution process.”
IHIT said that because the matter is now before the courts, it will not be releasing further information. The investigation is IHIT file 2026-680.
(Source: Integrated Homicide Investigation Team media release, November 2, 2026)
