Murder charge laid in death of 11-year-old boy reported missing in Burnaby, B.C.
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BURNABY – Two people have been charged in the death of an 11-year-old boy who was reported missing in Burnaby, B.C., more than a year ago.
Police received a report in September 2025 to check on the well-being of Kai Pavlovic, who was last known to be living with his family in Burnaby.
When officers couldn’t find the boy after several days, the probe was escalated to a high-risk missing person investigation by the RCMP’s serious crimes unit.
Police say the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team assumed conduct of the case in June, leading to the discovery of the boy’s remains.
Investigators say 51-year-old Branko Bijelic faces charges of second-degree murder and indignity to human remains, while 46-year-old Sarah Bijelic is charged with manslaughter.
Sgt. Freda Fong says the homicide team is saddened to share the update on the boy and there are “no words to accurately express the sadness surrounding the circumstances.”
“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,” Fong says in a statement.
She says laying charges is a significant milestone following more than a year of investigation, but the work continues as the case moves through the prosecution process.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 2, 2026.