Whitehorse RCMP arrest suspect in death of Brandy Vittrekwa

Whitehorse RCMP arrested a suspect early Thursday morning in connection with the death of 17-year-old Brandy Vittrekwa.

"At this time no charges have been laid in regards to the suspect that has been arrested," said Const. DeanHoogland, aspokesperson for Whitehorse RCMP. "We will not be releasing any details on this person's identity at this time."

Vittrekwa's body was found on a walking trail in the McIntyre subdivision Monday night. Police are investigating herdeath as a homicide.

RCMP ask anyone withinformation regarding theincident, or who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area of Hanna Crescent or Murphy Road between Sunday Dec.7and Monday, Dec.8to contact the Whitehorse RCMP at 867-667-5555.

"We willfollow up with every tip that comes in," said Hoogland. "Whether someone thinks it's insignificant, it might be very significant to us."

More than 100 people, including a cross-section of community leaders, attended acandlelight vigil Wednesday night to remember Vittrekwa.

Vittrekwa was a student at the Individual Learning Centre in Whitehorse. Principal Bill Bennett says she was part of the school's family.

"She loved her sewing teacher from Porter Creek and she liked her textiles program," he said.

"She did her English with us. She showed me her new jacket last week that she was so proud of. She was a sparkle for us."

The school is keeping a candle burning for Vittrekwa's family. Bennett says Christmas at the centre is going to be difficult.

A fundraising campaign to help pay for funeral costs is being run by Kwanlin Dun First Nation. It has already raised more than $10,000. There is no word yet on when the funeral will take place.