Burnaby police charge couple with murder in death of 11-year-old New Zealander

British Columbia police charged two adults with criminal offenses in connection with the death of Kai Pavlovic, an 11-year-old boy from New Zealand. The boy had been missing in the Burnaby area since September 26, 2025, when the Royal Canadian Mounted Police received a request for a well-being check. Officials believe the child was in the care of a caretaker at the time the investigation began.

The British Columbia Integrated Homicide Investigation Team took over the case in June 2026. Working with the Burnaby Serious Crimes Unit, investigators continued efforts to locate the boy. These efforts led to the discovery of his remains. Sergeant Freda Fong of the investigation team stated that the discovery marked a major step in the process after more than a year of work.

Police arrested Branko Bijelic, a 51-year-old man from Burnaby, on October 30. He faces charges of second-degree murder and indignity to human remains. Sarah Bijelic, 46, was also charged in connection with the death. She has been charged with manslaughter. Both arrests were made local time on October 30.

Sergeant Fong described the team's reaction to the developments in the case. "It is with heavy hearts that we share this update in the investigation into Kai's death," Fong said. "There are no words to accurately express the sadness surrounding the circumstances." The team noted that the public had assisted by coming forward with information during the long search.

Kai Pavlovic moved to Vancouver in 2023 with his mother and stepfather. He held New Zealand citizenship. His aunt, Helen Kok, spoke to the media earlier this year about the family's concerns. The family had lost contact with the boy and expressed grave concern for his safety. Kok described Kai as an exceptionally kind and intelligent young boy who made friends easily. She noted that the extended family from Montenegro and New Zealand missed him terribly.

The investigation is now before the courts. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team stated that it will not release further information while the case moves through the prosecution process. The family remains devastated by the situation and continues to mourn the loss of the 11-year-old.