The family of a Calgary woman police believe was killed by a friend is asking anyone with information in the case to come forward.
To this point, Calgary police haven’t located the body of Vida Smith, missing since July 21.
They believe Smith travelled July 21 from Calgary to Chestermere to visit with Kevin Barton (aka Chris Lee), 60, of Calgary. After missing a medical appointment, family contacted RCMP to report her as missing.
The Calgary police began an investigation, and based on initial evidence they believe that Smith was killed. Barton was charged with one count of manslaughter July 31.
Police are seeking assistance locating Smith’s body. They believe Barton travelled from Calgary to Edmonton on July 22 in a beige Cadillac Escalade. While in Edmonton, police said that Barton went to a Best Buy store located at 13924 – 137 Avenue NW.
Police are also looking for anyone who noticed suspicious activity in a parking lot on the west side of Sunridge ATB, located at 2555 – 32 Street NE on July 21.
“Though we have laid charges, our investigation is not over,” said Staff Sergeant Martin Schiavetta of the CPS Homicide Unit.
“We remain focused on locating Vida’s remains so we can help bring some sense of peace to her family.”
‘Our mom deserves dignity and respect.’
The family of Vida Smith issued a statement Tuesday, pleading for anyone to step forward to help find their friend, mother and grandmother.
“Tuesday, August 11 marks three weeks since I’ve seen my mom…You never know when you’re going to see someone for the last time.
Vida Smith is more than just a missing person or a victim…She’s a beautiful human being, she’s a friend, a mother and a grandmother. She loved her grandchildren more than anything in this world. Vida is so missed and forever loved by her friends and family.
We are beyond devastated and our hearts are broken knowing that we’ll never see her again.
Even though we are seeking privacy during this unimaginable time, we are asking for the public’s help… If you saw something or if you know something, please come forward.
Our mom deserves dignity and respect. We just want to find her and bring her home so she can Rest In Peace.”
Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Calgary police at 403-266-1234.
