Canmore RCMP ask public for help to solve case as family mourns woman killed in hit-and-run

A Canmore woman's family is mourning her loss as Mounties seek the public's help in the fatal hit-and-run that happened early Sunday on Highway 1 near the Canmore Visitor Information Centre.

The 20-year-old woman was killed when a vehicle hit her in an eastbound lane of the Trans-Canada Highway sometime between 3 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. and then left the scene.

Family members Jodi and Mark Blackwood identified the victim in a Facebook post as Ariana (Ari) Blackwood.

In a post published Thursday, Jodi Blackwood said Ariana was hit by a vehicle and killed on the morning of her 20th birthday around 3:30 a.m.

"Ari was a kind, gentle, loving, intelligent friend to all who were lucky enough to know her. She always made time for everyone who reached out no matter what they needed," Jodi wrote in the post.

"We are absolutely heartbroken and devastated at this tragic loss."

A police spokesperson told CBC News on Sunday that RCMP became aware of the hit-and-run after they got a call from someone who said they saw "something suspicious" on the road.

"Police responded and that's when the body was discovered," said Cpl. Gina Slaney.

On Thursday, RCMP renewed their request for the public's assistance in the investigation. 

Police are asking residences and businesses in the area between Canmore Hospital and the Canmore Visitor Information Centre to review surveillance footage between 2:30 a.m. and 3:50 a.m. on May 1. 

They are looking for any footage of a "slim blond female wearing light blue jeans and a black shirt with sleeves."

Police are also asking anyone who was driving on Highway 1 in Canmore on May 1 between 3 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. who may have seen a female walking in the area to review dash cam footage.

Anyone with information regarding this case can contact Canmore RCMP at 403-678-5519 or reach out to Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.