Two Family Members Charged in Homicide of

The tragic case of 11-year-old Kai Pavlovic has taken a grim turn as two family members have been charged in connection with his homicide. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) announced on Monday that Branko Bijelic, 51, and Sarah Bijelic, 46, both residents of Burnaby, face serious charges following a year-long investigation. Branko has been charged with second-degree murder and indignity to human remains, while Sarah faces a charge of manslaughter. The investigation revealed that Kai was killed before he was reported missing, a fact that adds a chilling layer to this already heartbreaking story.

Kai was reported missing on September 26, 2025, by family members in New Zealand who had not heard from him for an extended period. This silence was alarming and out of character for the young boy, prompting the family to reach out to Canadian authorities. Despite extensive search efforts, police were unable to locate Kai, leading to the case being escalated to the serious crimes unit and eventually to IHIT in June 2026. Tragically, human remains were discovered shortly thereafter, confirming the worst fears of those who loved him.

During a press conference, IHIT Sergeant Freda Fong emphasized the familial nature of the incident, stating, "This is not a stranger or random incident. At no point did we believe there was a risk to the public." This statement underscores the profound tragedy of the situation, as the individuals charged are not only family members but also the very people who were expected to protect Kai.

The timeline of events is particularly harrowing. Kai's remains were found at an undisclosed location in British Columbia, with the alleged offense occurring in 2025, prior to the missing report. For over a year, his family and community were left in the dark, grappling with uncertainty and fear. Now, with the charges laid, they face a new reality filled with grief and questions that may never be fully answered.

Kai's aunt, Helen Kok, spoke to RNZ about her beloved nephew, describing him as exceptionally kind, caring, and intelligent. "He is outgoing, makes friends easily, and is brave enough to give anything and everything a try," she recalled. These personal reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the life that has been tragically cut short, emphasizing that Kai was more than just a victim; he was a vibrant young boy with dreams and aspirations.

As the case moves forward, the emotional toll on the family and the community will be significant. Sergeant Fong acknowledged the weight of the investigation, stating, "It is with heavy hearts that we share this update. There are no words to accurately express the sadness surrounding the circumstances." The charges represent a critical milestone in a case that has already taken more than a year to unfold, but they also mark the beginning of a long legal process that will continue to impact all those involved.

The community in Burnaby, who may have seen Kai in passing, will now carry the burden of knowing the tragic fate that befell him. As the legal proceedings commence, the family in New Zealand, who once waited for news of Kai's whereabouts, now faces a different kind of waiting—one filled with the hope for justice amidst profound sorrow. The charges against Branko and Sarah Bijelic are just the beginning of a public reckoning that will unfold in the courtroom, while the private grief of Kai's loved ones continues to deepen.

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