Remains of Samuel Bird found, Edmonton police charge 38 year old with murder

Edmonton police say they’ve charged a man with second-degree murder of Samuel Bird, a 14-year-old who has been missing since June. “On Oct. 15, 2025, Bryan Farrell, 38, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder and interfering with a body in relation to the homicide,” said a release from Edmonton police on Thursday. According to police, Farrell is also charged with 13 other offences, including, “aggravated assault (x2), arson to property with disregard for human life (x2), arson to property, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a dangerous weapon (x2), assault peace officer with weapon (x3), uttering threats and fraud over $5000.” Bird’s mother, Alanna Joseph, thanked police and supporters for their help in searching for him. “A big thank you to the Edmonton police for locating him,” Joseph said on a social media post. “Also I want to thank the searchers and Samuel’s Warriors and the cherished friends I made along the way in hopes of finding him, I want to thank every single person who donated in hopes of finding My boy, with out all the help we couldn’t of kept this search going. “I want to say thank you to those who kept me sane since June 1st 2025, a big thank you to every person who shared his missing poster, thank you to everyone who showed up to our rallies for Samuel Bird.” On Oct. 9, police announced that they had narrowed the search to an area about 150 km west of Edmonton. Police said it was information from the public and other sources that led them to this area. “It was compelling enough to immediately send our K9 to this location from the other location,” said Det. Jared Buhler at the Oct. 9 news conference in Carrot Creek, where the search was set to start. People following Joseph’s Facebook page reacted to the news. “Take good care,” said one follower. “Many prayers to you and your family  wish you healing and peace as you continue your journey.” “Today is heavy and we would like to remind you all to hold space for yourselves as well,” said another follower. “Please remember to be kind to each other. Please remember to make your self care a priority.” Bird was a member of the Paul Band in Alberta. His family said he would always be on Snapchat, Facebook and Instagram messaging and talking with his friends and family daily. However, on the day he went missing, his activity online suddenly stopped. Investigators said that Bird was last seen on surveillance video at around 8:30 p.m. on June 1, and was going to a residence of a friend “where he was last seen.” “After a lengthy and complex investigation, we are pleased to be able to conclude this file and hopefully bring some measure of resolution and justice to Samuel’s loved ones, who have been searching tirelessly for him,” said Buhler in Thursday’s statement. Police said that Farrell “is the only person arrested and charged in the homicide.” “At this time, police are not looking for other suspects in relation to the murder. Investigators are aware of ongoing social media speculation on this file, and wish to remind the public that harassment and threatening behaviour is unlawful,” said the release. Continue Reading