Police say an 11-year-old Burnaby, B.C., boy who was reported missing last year was the victim of a homicide.
Now, charges have been laid in connection to his death, B.C.’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) said in a news release Monday.
Branko Bijelic, 51, of Burnaby has been charged with second-degree murder and indignity to human remains.
Sarah Bijelic, 46, of Burnaby has been charged with one count of manslaughter.
Mounties in Burnaby, B.C., searching for missing 11-year-old boy
RCMP launch province-wide billboard campaign to find missing 11-year-old Kai Pavlovic
IHIT said Burnaby RCMP received a request to check Kai Pavlovic’s well-being on Sept. 26, 2025. Police were unable to find him “despite significant efforts,” and the case was escalated to the serious crimes unit, and then to IHIT.
The investigation ultimately led to the discovery of Pavlovic’s remains, according to the release. Police did not say when or where his remains were found.
“We recognize the concern this investigation has caused within the community, and our thoughts are with Kai’s loved ones and those affected by this tragedy,” Sgt. Freda Fong said in IHIT’s release. “We thank the public for their assistance and for coming forward with information.”
In October last year, police said they believed Pavlovic was with a “caretaker” but shared few other details. They had asked the caretaker to come forward and confirm he was safe.
Police launched a province-wide billboard campaign to find Pavlovic last year.
