The BBQ at Pepsi Park in Regina marks 18 years since Tamra Keepness’ disappearance. Globalnews.ca

a member of Regina Police Service (RPS) turn-down burgers for Tamra Keepness’ annual barbecue. Organized by RPS and Regina/Treaty Status Indian Services (RT/SIS), people of all ages participated in the event at Pepsi Park in Regina.

It is important for the police to partner with community organizations to raise awareness about Tamra’s disappearance. The RPS deputy chief remembers the day Tamra went missing as he was working as a constable in the RPS property crime unit at that time.

RPS deputy chief Dean Rai said, “To a large extent, the entire organization was tasked with doing some work in connection with the investigation.”

“We were very busy for the first months tracking down the variety of tips (and) investigative information that was passed on to us.”

The event is held every year on the 5th of July to commemorate the day of his disappearance from his home on the 1800 block of Ottawa Street. This year marks 18 years since his disappearance.

Even though many years have passed, the police are still looking at the tips with caution.

“Every year, we end up with multiple tips,” Rae said. “I know we had a tip that took us to[the United States]and we followed that up. We’re always hoping that we find that one piece of information that’s going to give us some leads, where we follow up.” -up and hopefully find Tamra.”

The annual barbecue is an occasion where the RPS and RT/SIS hope that someone will someday come forward to share some information on Tamra.

“Today is an excellent day to remember not only the issue of the MMIWG2S people, but the community coming together, the importance of education (and safety),” said Erica Boudin, RT/SIS Executive Director.

“What (the family) has told me over the years is that at this barbecue[has reassured them]that they are not alone in this and there are other people who miss[Tamara]and wonder where she is. “

RPS is offering a $50,000 reward for any information that leads to Keepness’s whereabouts. Anyone with information – as little as they can – is asked to contact RPS (306) 777-6500 or Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.

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