The Ottawa Police Service has escalated efforts to locate a 27-year-old Indigenous woman who has been missing for over three weeks, issuing an urgent public appeal for information regarding her whereabouts.
Missing Person Alert Issued for Dezzi Kakepetum
On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the Ottawa Police Service formally released a missing person notice concerning Dezzi Kakepetum, a 27-year-old Indigenous woman whose disappearance has raised significant concerns among authorities and the community.
Last Known Sighting and Timeline
According to official police statements, Kakepetum was last observed on February 6 in the vicinity between Rideau Street and Strathcona Park, located within the Sandy Hill neighborhood of Ottawa. Notably, her disappearance was not reported to law enforcement until February 26, creating a critical three-week gap in the investigation timeline.
Physical Description and Identifying Features
Police have provided a detailed physical description to aid in public recognition efforts. Dezzi Kakepetum is described as:
- Approximately five feet six inches in height
- Currently pregnant
- Possessing dark brown eyes
- Having dark brown, shoulder-length hair
Authorities have disseminated photographs through official channels to enhance visibility and assist community members in identification.
Community Assistance Requested
The Ottawa Police Service is actively encouraging anyone with potential information regarding Kakepetum's location or recent activities to come forward immediately. Individuals with relevant details are urged to contact the Ottawa Police Service directly at 613-236-1222, extension 7300.
This developing situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by missing persons cases, particularly involving Indigenous women, and highlights the crucial role of community engagement in supporting law enforcement investigations.
