Kenny Leaf pictured with his son Kyro. Leaf, 50, had been missing since mid-January. (Submitted by the Leaf family)
Human remains found last week in Akwesasne have been identified by authorities as Kenneth “Kenny” Francis Leaf, a 50-year-old father of six who has been missing since January.
The case is being investigated as a homicide by the Akwesasne Mohawk Police (AMPS), Sûreté du Québec and Saint Regis Tribal Police. The body was found July 26 near Saint-Regis Island.
Akwesasne, a Kanien’kehá:ka community that straddles the Quebec, Ontario and United States borders, is approximately 120 kilometres southeast of Ottawa.
The Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service launched a ground search for Kenny Leaf on July 18, after they received new information about his disappearance. (Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service/Facebook)
“We ask the community to unite and offer emotional support to those most in need, in any capacity you’re able to offer,” the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) said in a recent statement.
“The loss of a loved one is difficult to process, but we hope all those affected by this tragedy may find comfort in the strength and support that our community provides. Akwesasne is in mourning and we ask our neighbours and the public to be mindful and respectful of this grieving period.”
Leaf disappeared sometime after January 13, according to his family.
Ground search efforts began on the morning of July 18 by Akwesasne police and Ontario Provincial Police in various points of interests in the community after police received new information that he may be in the area.
MCA hopes discovery brings ‘peace of mind’
The MCA said it will assist police and make resources available to Leaf’s family, including counselors at the Wholistic Health and Wellness Program.
“While the investigation continues, we also hope that this brings peace of mind to those that loved Kenny and that they can finally bring him home to rest,” the MCA said in its statement.
Anyone who has information is asked to contact the Sûreté du Québec’s Criminal Information Center at 1-800-659-4264.
Leaf was the second man from Akwesasne to go missing last winter.
Akwesasne police found the body of Donald Johnson, 31, on February 28 in a marsh around the district of Snye. Police said no foul play was suspected in that case and it is not connected to Leaf’s disappearance.