Surrey teen missing since October found dead in Delta, says family

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SURREY – The search for an 18-year-old Surrey teen, Joseph Maku, who had been reported missing in October, is now over.

In a Facebook post Friday night, Brenda Maku, Joseph’s sister, shared the “devastating news” that he was found deceased in Delta, BC.

The family has been informed that he likely passed away on the day he was reported missing.

“Tonight, I am writing to let you all know that we have received devastating news today, that Joseph has passed away,” Brenda Maku said in a post Friday night.

Maku said the cause of death is “under investigation” by the BC Coroners Service.

“Until then, we will remain shocked that my brother is no longer here to shine a light on us all,” she added.

Maku expressed deep gratitude to the numerous volunteer groups who tirelessly assisted in the search efforts and asked for privacy while family members grieve.

“Countless days and nights were spent in the cold, in the rain, in different cities and parks trying to find him, and so many people have continued to let me know how loved and cared for Joseph was,” said Maku.

Surrey RCMP first reported Joseph Maku as missing on Oct. 25 reported he was last seen in the 13000 block of 96th Avenue on October 22.

Fraser Valley Today has reached out to the BC Coroners’ Service for further details.