Winnipeg, MB – The identity of a woman who was found deceased in a Winnipeg hotel more than a year ago has been confirmed. Her family, who recently identified her through an updated sketch shared by the Winnipeg police, has revealed that the woman was Melanie McKay, a beloved member of their community.
What Happened
On August 10, 2024, the body of an unidentified woman was found at the Manwin Hotel on Main Street in Winnipeg. For over a year, her identity remained a mystery, with police and local organizations working tirelessly to uncover her name. In a recent development, the Giganawenimaanaanig — a committee dedicated to supporting the MMIWG2S+ (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit+ individuals) community — and the Winnipeg police released a new sketch of the woman. This sketch, along with further details, was crucial in identifying her as Melanie McKay, following a heartfelt response from the public.
Who Was Melanie McKay
Melanie McKay, whose spirit name was Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe or Buffalo Woman, was a woman deeply cherished by her family and community. McKay’s passing has been met with profound grief, especially as the family had been left with questions for over a year. Despite the tragedy, McKay’s family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of community support, which helped them finally bring her home.
Background or Timeline
The investigation into McKay’s death began after she was found at the Manwin Hotel. Despite the lack of suspicion of foul play, police were unable to identify her, as no one at the hotel knew where she had come from or who she was. The first sketch was released in September 2024, but it wasn’t until a second updated sketch was shared in early 2025 that a breakthrough occurred. Within 48 hours of the release of the new sketch, McKay’s family had been contacted after seeing the post on social media.
Her sisters traveled to Winnipeg on Monday, February 19, 2025, to claim her remains, marking the painful yet necessary step of closure.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The release of the updated sketch generated a significant amount of community engagement, with individuals sharing the post across various platforms. Giganawenimaanaanig expressed immense gratitude to the public for their role in identifying McKay, saying that it was thanks to the public’s efforts that the family finally received answers. The organization highlighted how quickly the information reached the family, stressing the power of community involvement in bringing justice and closure.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
While Winnipeg police do not suspect foul play, they continue to respect the family’s privacy as they process their grief. Giganawenimaanaanig has requested that the family be given time and space to mourn their loss, and the organization has thanked everyone who contributed to the identification process.
Melanie McKay’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of community efforts in solving such tragedies and ensuring that no one is forgotten.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Winnipeg Woman Identified After More Than a Year: Melanie McKay, Formerly Known as Buffalo Woman first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
