Colleen Belesky fondly remembers her son, Corey Belesky, as a resilient and attractive individual with a deep love for animals and a strong bond with his family. Sharing her heartfelt sentiments at a recent press briefing in a northwestern Ontario city, she expressed how her existence came to a halt when Corey’s life came to an end.
Corey, a 31-year-old member of Marten Falls First Nation, a remote Ojibway community situated over 400 kilometers northeast of Thunder Bay, tragically passed away three years ago. On the anniversary of his death, his family and community are urging the public to come forward with any information and are urging the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) to increase efforts in the investigation.
During the emotional gathering, Colleen Belesky, surrounded by relatives holding cherished photos of Corey and a map of the neighborhood where his body was discovered, tearfully pleaded for anyone with knowledge to step forward for the sake of justice.
The Belesky family is one of several who have raised concerns with the Ontario Inspector General of Policing about the TBPS’ handling of death and missing-person cases. In response, an evaluation by Ryan Teschner was announced in October of that year.
NAN’s Deputy Grand Chief, Anna Betty Achneepineskum, emphasized the importance of the upcoming report by Teschner, not just for Corey’s family but for all Indigenous families seeking closure and justice in similar situations.
In their quest for answers, Corey Belesky’s family voiced dissatisfaction with the communication received from the TBPS, urging for more regular updates even if they lack significant progress. They are also pushing for the approval of a substantial reward by the Thunder Bay Police Service Board to incentivize potential leads in Corey’s case.
The TBPS expressed ongoing sympathy for the Belesky family and reiterated their commitment to resolving Corey’s tragic passing. While the family stated a lack of communication since July, the police assured that investigators would continue to provide monthly updates as requested.
Chief Bruce Achneepineskum of Marten Falls First Nation stressed the significance of community cooperation in shedding light on Corey’s death, noting the importance of closure for the grieving family. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the investigation team or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
As the search for answers continues, Anna Betty Achneepineskum emphasized the urgency of public cooperation, stating, “Someone has to know something” about Corey’s untimely demise.