WINNIPEG, Manitoba — More than a year after a woman was found dead at a Winnipeg hotel, her family has come forward to identify her as Melanie McKay.

McKay was discovered on August 10, 2024, at the Manwin Hotel on Main Street. At the time, police said no one at the hotel knew who she was, and despite months of efforts, her identity remained unknown. Foul play was not suspected in her death.

Last week, Winnipeg police and Giganawenimaanaanig, Manitoba’s MMIWG2S+ implementation committee, shared a new sketch of the woman along with additional identifying details. She had been given the spirit name Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe — Buffalo Woman — during a community ceremony to honor her while her identity was still a mystery.

Just days later, McKay’s family recognized her after seeing the updated sketch shared widely on social media. On Saturday, they confirmed her identity.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone in the community who shared the information,” Giganawenimaanaanig said in a statement. “You were the heart of this effort in bringing her home and giving this family answers. In just 48 hours, the information reached her family, all because of you.”

McKay’s sisters traveled to Winnipeg on Monday to claim her remains. The organization asked the public to respect the family’s privacy as they grieve the devastating loss.

Her identification brings closure to a year-long search and highlights the power of community, ceremony, and collective effort in giving dignity and answers to families seeking their loved ones.

My deepest condolences to her loved ones.