The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) released a statement today confirming that a body found within the last week is that of missing Shopify executive, Brett O’Grady.
The OPS stated that it responded to a call regarding human remains that were located in the water in the area of Sir George Étienne Cartier Parkway and C.H. Airport-Marina Road on Saturday, June 11th at approximately 5:10 pm. A forensic identification process has confirmed it to be O’Grady, who had been missing since October.
O’Grady had served as the head of treasury and risk of Shopify, and had been with the company since 2015.
O’Grady, 35, was reported missing on October 14. At the time, a search had taken place and his family called for his safe return, “no questioned asked.” O’Grady’s family said he went missing after going for a bike ride while working from home, and didn’t pick up his son from daycare that afternoon. O’Grady’s wallet and cellphone were left at the house, and his bicycle was found near the family home.
O’Grady’s family said police suspended their search four days after he disappeared because it was believed he was no longer in the area. The police said they continued to follow up on tips.
According to CTV News, his family had offered a $10,000 reward for tips that led to O’Grady being found while Shopify provided funding for a search and rescue expert to assist in the search.
The OPS report stated that the East Criminal Investigation Unit, Missing Persons, and the Coroner office have concluded that no foul play is suspected in relation to O’Grady’s passing.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of Brett’s passing,” a spokesperson for Shopify told BetaKit. “Brett was a valued member of our team, and his absence will continue to be felt across our company and the broader Ottawa community. Our thoughts and condolences remain with Brett’s family during this difficult time, and we ask that their privacy please be respected. We are extremely grateful to law enforcement and the volunteers who worked tirelessly to help aid in his search.”