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One Year After Coquihalla Hit-and-Run, Police Name Victim as Family Appeals for Tips

Police say Buddy Rhodes, 24, was hit near Exit 286 by a southbound vehicle, urging the driver to contact BC Highway Patrol.

Overview

  • BC Highway Patrol publicly released Buddy Rhodes’ name and circulated a video of his sister, Alix Legouffe, pleading for information on the first anniversary of his death.
  • Rhodes’ body was discovered on Aug. 30, 2024 off Highway 5 near Exit 286 in Merritt after what investigators describe as a fatal hit-and-run.
  • A collision reconstructionist determined Rhodes was likely standing or walking at the roadside when a southbound vehicle struck him.
  • Investigators believe the collision happened several days before the body was found, complicating evidence gathering and leaving the driver and vehicle unidentified.
  • Police invite tips from any witnesses or the motorist involved, noting the driver may not have realized a collision occurred, and ask callers to contact BC Highway Patrol – Merritt at 250-378-4262.