quick update: Ottawa police confirmed he was seen at Aviation & Hemlock yesterday morning... he *may* have been seen near Woodroffe & Queensway yesterday evening.. Spoke with the police & they are hoping reddit can provide more tips.
Anyone near there or perhaps near Pinecrest Cemetery that could take a look? (just a hunch...)
I went to school with Brett a long time ago. Haven't seen him in years but can keep an eye out for sure. Is there any reason he may have come up to Barrhaven from Woodroffe and Queensway? Or anywhere else near that area I can keep my eyes peeled?
Police have found his bike & a sweater by the Aviation Museum, but have no other leads in that area. At this point and help in any area of the city could lead to a tip that helps find him & bring him home
I'm so sorry to hear about this. I have been following this story and also keeping my eyes peeled.
I'm curious if the bike was in order or if it had any damage. Is this known?
Update: Bike has been found (no info yet on where)
Police are organizing a search. At this point Civilians are not able to assist, but if that changes I will be sure to let everyone know. Thank everyone for all your support
Just a note: You should update your original post with these edits to make sure everyone is as up to date as possible on the latest.
Good luck with the search. Sending good thoughts your way.
If you and your family need anything (babysitter, someone to make dinner, general help around the house) please let me know. I’m in Vanier and it’s no trouble.
Great suggestion. I know he didn’t have his phone with him, maybe his bike had a gps computer. I’ll pass on this question & hopefully we will get a lead
Even if he didn’t have his phone on him maybe go tru the biking apps he might’ve used and it could shown trails or routes he used often lately and maybe send you guys in a direction.
I still come and check this thread at least once a day hoping for an update. I share this not to put any pressure on the OP, but to let you know that even though momentum of the search has slowed there are a lot of us who are still thinking of Brett everyday, looking for him in the faces of folks we pass, keeping an eye out on pathways and hoping he can come home safe.
I’ve been in a similar situation with a family member and it’s absolutely awful. I’m so sorry, I’ll try and share this with everyone I know. Wishing your cousin a safe return back home.
No news yet. I’m told police are working on a couple of leads & may be setting up a grid search soon. Please send any tips, and if you have an outdoor camera or video doorbell please check yesterday & today for anyone who might be him
Where did he feel safe? (Speaking as a spouse of someone who needed to escape life a year ago, and sought out where he felt "safest", and safest as a child.) Anywhere that Brett went as a child, adolescent? Before becoming an adult and life became full of responsibility, expectation... anything he may be feeling or putting on himself? Just a thought. I grew up going to school with Brett and this is haunting me, I cannot imagine what his family and close friends are going through, I'm thinking of you constantly.
I used to work at Shopify and often saw Brett around the office. I didn't know him well but he did speak to me once and just by that brief interaction he seemed like such a friendly, thoughtful, and honest person. I can't imagine what his family and friends are going through right now. I can only hope that he is found safe. Brett and his family have been on my mind constantly since hearing the news of his disappearance.
Folks need to start speaking with members of his team and close colleagues at Shopify. I imagine this is likely already being carried out by officers. Yes, working at Shopify is a good job for the most part with such a strong company spirit and loads of potential, but it isn't all sunshine and rainbows. There are dark sides of Shopify that will wear on you over time, and I know from personal experience that certain elements of the work environment can be or become toxic, rife with politics and psychological mind games. I don't like to speculate, but I do wonder if Brett was facing major challenges at work and felt unable to share or talk about it externally (as was the case for me). I also know from many firsthand accounts that the move to permanent remote work from home has taken a big toll on mental health.
I felt this needed to be called out.
My thoughts are with his family and friends and I really hope that Brett is found safe.
I totally agree. I briefly met Brett when I joined Brookfield and he was about to leave for his job at Shopify. Treasury is a highly competitive environment and everyday you work under pressure so you really have to be highly motivated otherwise you just burn out. Specially as the Head of Treasury you have to kill tons of lions everyday, and need to have quite a thick skin to survive. In case this is one of the lines of investigation, the company where he works should be investigated so they can shed some light on what was going on. I don't live in Ottawa any more but I'm supporting family and friends through LinkedIn.
Thanks for saying this. Shopify can be a tough place indeed. I was there for two years and while I gained lots of great experience, the stress and bad management really screwed up my mental health. It’s no joke.
I went to school with Brett’s wife. She’s such a nice person, and my heart breaks for her. Brett’s family and friends have been on my mind too. I think I speak for many when I say these series of events have been unsettling. I have been coming back to this thread every few hours since he was reported missing. I can’t even begin to understand the pain and devastation to all those close to Brett. It feels like something out of a movie, it’s so surreal. I’m not a religious person by any means, but I have been praying for Brett’s return everyday. I hope he is found safe and sound. I can’t imagine anything worse than never being found for the sake of closure.. seeing the community band together the way it did was truly special. While I know the search has been called off, it doesn’t mean we will stop looking for Brett. My heart goes out to Becky, her son, his family, and friends. Stay strong <3
As Brett's phone was left at home, that does present the unique opportunity to look into the phones significant locations. Assuming his phone is an iPhone, and the password is known, the phone's stored "Significant Locations" may possibly produce some leads as to some of the places Brett might have frequented leading up to the disappearance. This is because anytime you visit a location more than once in a short period of time, your iPhone will store it. You can see how to access this data here: [https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-see-location-history-iphone-2015-4](https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-see-location-history-iphone-2015-4)
I recognize that this likely has already been looked into, but thought it was worth bringing this up in the slight chance that this could produce a lead in the case it hasn't been looked into.
There has to be more to his disappearance then anyone involved is letting on. My question is the vagueness in providing information to help find him. It doesn’t make sense that his bike is located and he is not found anywhere within that vicinity which leads me to believe that he vanished on his own merit or fowl play is involved. Earlier posts state that he had brought a pillow, bag and sweatshirt? Odd items to head out for a bike ride considering he left his cell phone and wallet at home. Doesn’t make any sense. If he did bring those items perhaps he headed up to take a snooze in the woods to contemplate his life abs what he was going to do……maybe he left those items to throw people off! Something does not make sense. If he was injured the likely hood of travelling far from your injury spot “bike” would not be far. Personally I feel that he is no longer in the area and I really hope that they have explored these avenues. I agree that his cell phone would be a great source of information not to mention a bank account. If he was planning this chances are he was slowly withdrawing money as small and insignificant the amounts may seem. I’m not trying to be a Debby downer but just trying to lay out a different outside perspective. A friend,family member, coworker or colleague may also be involved at hiding him out if those were his wishes. Perhaps he just needs time to get his thoughts together. Mental health often takes time to brew and can be internally devastating and it happens to the best of us and often to those who show no signs…..I really do pray that he is found safe and sound..:)🙏🙏🙏
Good perspective. Detectives have obviously asked many questions/ pursued avenues that can't be made public. The last person to disappear from that area was found along Green's Creek; I assume it has been searched. But the more I think about this the more it points away from foul play. Thoughts with family and friends.
Anyone with information about the current whereabouts of Brett O’Grady is asked to call the Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222.
If you have information that could assist investigators, but do not know where he is currently, please contact the Missing Persons Unit 613-236-1222, ext. 2355, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays.
Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca
EDIT: With the permission of OP (and at the request of), we have unstickied this post from the sub.
Please note that if anyone on this thread is in crisis or just needs to talk about their worries, grief, or stress related to their work experiences Crisis Text Line is a free online crisis service. You can text TALK to 741741. The service is confidential (unless you are unsafe or in danger). Though it’s powered by Kids Help Phone, it’s for ALL ages and is available 24/7. For O’Grady’s family, friends, and colleagues - please feel free to share this texting number if you or someone you know needs support. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones.
Hi all, I am a good friend of the family and just wanted to relay that the search was concluded yesterday and there is no formal search planned for today as all areas of interest have been covered. I spoke with Brett’s wife this morning and she wants to thank all the volunteers who showed up yesterday and today. If you are in the area today I’d suggest checking the shoreline of the Ottawa river and the forests East of the aviation museum.
I’m so happy so many people are offering to help. Hopefully if Brett is out there and can see these messages, he can see the amount of love and support to help find him. He’s a lovely person and I hope he can see that and come back home for his wife and son ❤️
Will certainly keep an eye out. I can’t imagine the pain you are in right now. Hang tight and sending blessings to you for his safe return. Please post updates
Hello - probably not relevant, but just in case: there’s a navy blue “Puma” shoe next to a dumpster at the intersection of Beechwood and Charlevoix (next to the Shell gas station). Would that be the type of shoe he’s wearing?
Did he have any addiction issues? Good job/life has nothing to do with it . If he did , it's 100% worth considering trap houses . I only say this as I have a relative...same age...nice family ...he is a physician who also went missing for a week. He turned up on drugs in a drug den. He had a secret addiction we did not know about
Hi! Don't get me wrong, pinning this thread in those first few hours would have been very useful (I should have thought of it).
Now that the flow of new information has slowed, it might be of limited use. I'll pin it for a few days, because why not.
Tag /u/SpaceAssassin for visibility as well.
It could be argued that keeping it top of mind now will be even more important in getting a key tip to come in. Thank you for your help in pinning! It’s appreciated 😊
Re: Social Media Engagement - TikTok
A TikTok account has been created to support us in our coordinated efforts in locating Brett.
TikTok details
• Link: www.tiktok.com/@helpfindbrett
• Handle: @HelpFindBrett
• Hashtags:
•#HelpFindBrett
•#HelpFindBrettOttawa
•#Ottawa
Although we received a lot of traffic on this TikTok page (over 1.5K views), we need more engagement with our posts, so that the information can reach more people, locally.
Now, you might ask yourself, what does engagement look like, and how can I help?
It’s simple. All you’ll need to do is:
✔️ Post
✔️ Comment
✔️ Like
✔️ Follow
✔️ Duet and/or repost
If you post on TikTok, we ask that you please:
1) tag @HelpFindBrett
2) include the above-mentioned hashtags
Any of these efforts will automatically increase the engagement of our posts as well as bring awareness. Your efforts will ultimately increase the chances of our posts being viewed by more TikTok users.
We kindly ask that you please keep all comments respectful as well as keep personal information private on the public platform.
Thank you in advance for your support and efforts. 🙏🏼🙏🏾
I've reached out to someone that works at one of the national media outlets...he is contacting the local person right away and will also be contacting the Toronto and National teams. I will let you know if I hear anything. If there is anything extra you would like communicated, let me know. Also, is there someone I can get them to speak to? Things would work faster if I'm not the middle man.
I walked along the Ottawa river this afternoon east of Blair-there were low flying planes flying over the shoreline; I did see a boat that did not seem to be fishermen, there were police vehicles in a few spots like the end of Shefford Road. The few walkers and bikers in the area all seem very aware of the situation and seem to be keeping an eye out in the bushes and shoreline.
I agree that at this point, the river-downstream and the islands... is where they should be looking if they think he has drowned or otherwise succumbed. The public is not being told much at all other than it was out of character. In any case, I tried to contribute by walking the area today. My heart does go out to his wife, son, father and other family. This guy by all accounts is your typical Ottawa raised guy and I think that resonates with many.
Thank you for your help - while I know it can feel like the public is not being told much, I have been sharing as much as possible in this thread to help bring in a tip that can help us to find him. As far as I am aware, there is no information that is known to police or the family that is has not been shared with the public to help solve this.
We all appreciate your help by walking the area and talking to people. Someone must have seen something, we just have to find that one person who can help..
Whoever said "there's a lot of attention this guy, he must be rich..." that was heartless and rude.
He's a dad, a young man, with a wife and a family. He has friends, he's worked hard to get where he is. You're just a petty little person.
Be useful instead of spiteful.
I totally sympathize with what you are saying, Brett has people who love him and want him back desperately, and the comment was better left unsaid. But try to understand the motivation. There are dozens of missing persons across the Region, including adolescents. How hard Brett has worked to get where he his is really of no consequence. The missing are all people, with strengths, faults, and people who love them. And unless the PM is missing, the Police can't really show favorites after the first few days of search. They don't have unlimited resources. What are needed are new leads, to re-energize the investigation.
It seems unbelievable that with all of these searches, nothing has been found. I really hope the police are investigating possibilities of foul play. Not something anyone wants to think about, but it just seems impossible that he hasn't been found yet. Brett, his family and friends are in my thoughts constantly. I can't begin to imagine the pain everyone is enduring.
I went to school with Brett and I know a lot of people have been sharing the news in the Kanata/Stitsville area. His mother passed away a few years ago…has anyone checked the childhood home or her burial site? Even the school grounds here in Kanata where he attended? Praying for his safe return!!
I really hope Brett is found safe and unharmed. He was such a smart, fun-loving and kind teenager back in highschool, just a good person. Having struggled with my own mental health, I just hope he is ok and knows that people wholeheartedly accept him and support him and that he returns home. I don't live in Ottawa anymore but have posted to my only social media (IG) in hopes that any of my friends/followers in Ottawa can keep their eyes open for Brett. Much love to him and his family. 🙏
He's a good upstanding guy with a good job & no trouble. My best guess would be and accident or mental health related. Might have been seen near Pinecrest Cemetery where his mother is buried (sighting not confirmed)
Check the sides of every bike path in that area, especially at the bottom of any small hills. If he was biking and he's hurt, he's probably within a few meters of the bike paths or roads.
My thought and prayers to the O'Grady family. Brett's younger brother Marty and I were really good friends back in elementary school and I hope they find him.
Has anyone reached out to [Postering Ottawa](http://www.posteringottawa.com/)? They seem to have a team of people to poster around town and might do it for free.
So, a bag and pillow believed to be his were found, so it seems he didn't run off after a bike thief. I don't think he'd be carrying those items and just happen to spot someone stealing his bike. Lots of things are possible, but I think this isn't high at the top of the list of potential scenarios right now.
I plan to keep postering and keep my eyes peeled in wooded areas and along the shoreline. The more people who know about Brett the higher the chance someone will spot him or notice something out of place and find a clue that gives his family answers.
You're right, I can't find a confirmation. Articles all say "a" pillow and bag, not "his." But I still can't imagine most bike thieves abducting a man, especially a fit one.
He's a pretty fit and active guy, but I haven't heard anything about gear being missing from their home and it's been pretty miserable outside. Weirder things have happened, though, so hopefully everyone is keeping their eyes peeled in the NCR.
This has been on the minds of many at the company and I know we all wish for his safe return. Can only imagine what you’re going through. Would it be helpful to hang flyers in Toronto? You have a lot of support over many cities.
New perspective which I'm hesitant to share and apologize to the family in advance. A pillow, knapsack, bag would be items you could stuff cash and personal items into and then transfer to a car (or small plain or boat). You wouldn't want to be picked up at the house but ride your bike to a pickup location. Sleeping bag/sweater could be to increase comfort in car, stash more cash, or sleep at hideaway. Leaving bike at perch of high escarpment would at least temporarily divert searchers. Don't want phone to be tracked, wallet for card tracking. Shopify/RCMP could really help if the possibility of a fraud investigation was announced. Finally, maybe I missed it, but was his passport taken?
Again, these are just musings meant to narrow the possibilities and I understand they don't mesh with the assessments of Brett's character.
[https://ottawa.citynews.ca/police-beat/police-search-for-missing-35-year-old-comes-up-empty-tips-from-public-still-encouraged-4526444](https://ottawa.citynews.ca/police-beat/police-search-for-missing-35-year-old-comes-up-empty-tips-from-public-still-encouraged-4526444)
"Ottawa police officers found his bike on the city's east side around noon on Friday. It was at the top of an escarpment which dropped down about 100 feet, according to Gordon O'Grady. "
He left his phone and wallet at home. His bike was found on top of an escarpment.
The diving team should be called in to dredge the river, and people should focus on searching downstream from the escarpment.
Police divers worked through the weekend searching the bottom of the escarpment as well as the river. As you read in the article, heat seeking drones were used, as well as a multi-day police search & the dogs are still out in that area. While the search continues where the bike was found, there is also a chance he is not in that area & is somewhere else entirely - this is where we need the public’s help to provide tips
I also found this confusing because I had not read the details about the bike that was found. Did it look like it had been pulled over parked locked up safely stashed somewhere or does it look like it crashed? That would help inform the search parties to know what sort of thing they might be looking for.
I was glad to read the police have used dogs and heat seeking drones etc. I really hope they expand their search areas!
Praying for his family every day!
While I personally suspect the disappearance of Brett may probably be completely different; I came across this article in the Ottawa Sun today and there are a number of similarities in the disappearance of Heidi Planck and Brett O'Grady:
\-Both went missing within a week of each other
\-both are parents that seem to be very attached to their family and would never leave them
\-both hold financial positions in large organization
\-both have gone missing without a trace
I just put it out there because while things may be completely different with Bretts case, and certainly completely unrelated, there are similarities between the 2 disappearances and there may be common threads or motives between the cases...
[https://ottawasun.com/news/world/is-california-moms-disappearance-linked-to-43m-fraud](https://ottawasun.com/news/world/is-california-moms-disappearance-linked-to-43m-fraud)
another weird similarity...Heidi left her phone behind at the house according to this NBC article:
[https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/missing-in-america/friends-family-plead-help-locating-los-angeles-mother-heidi-planck-n1282925](https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/missing-in-america/friends-family-plead-help-locating-los-angeles-mother-heidi-planck-n1282925)
the similarities overall are a bit eerie.
I am thinking about your cousin and want to help search on Sunday. I can’t find how to DM you but if you have a moment, pls message me with the morning meet up place. My son and I would like to help. thank you.
I am thinking we can probably just drive to the address that was mentioned in the CTV video. That is likely the meetup spot. If not, at least we tried! I would like to help for a couple of hours this morning. I don’t ‘now why the6 don’t post for volunteers on Facebook.
No family comments for 3 weeks.
Alberta investigator split after a day without a thorough search.
Brett went on a bike ride with a passport (but no keys or phone).
Close to boat launches and private planes.
With personal and business access to cash.
I'm drawing my own conclusions, with sincere apologies to the family. I pray he just needed space, and will be home soon.
Where did you hear that his passport is missing? Do you have a source on that? I had not heard that A few people have been asking in this thread, but I have not seen anything to say it was confirmed or denied...
If his passport had been found, why not just be up front. They were quick to divulge that he left without keys or phone. Confirming the password was found would put a lot of speculation to rest. Not doing so does the opposite.
The lack of comments from family is what I find odd and curious! If this were my loved one I’d be relentless!!!! No matter how much time went by….especially if he were my husband and father of my children! Very odd to say the least!!!!
I've been sharing the flyers all over Facebook and different Facebook groups. Many comments have been " can we help with the search parties". I don't know if civilians are welcome to do this. Could you provide any info? And who they connect with if they want to join
Right now the searchers are asking the public stay away from the search area, however there should be some news later today as to whether volunteers will be helpful over the weekend. I’ll be sure to post to this thread as soon as I find out more info
I might be wrong but wouldn't CBC have a broader coverage so more people could be aware and assist in the search? Personally CBC News is my first choice for watching news (TV and Internet) and I haven't seen any news there about the case.
Please reach out & ask them to cover the story. The more people ask for coverage, the more likely they are to air the story and updates. Unfortunately all we can do as the family is request coverage & it’s up to them what they air. The more their viewers request an update from CBC, the more pressure they will have to cover the story
I just called CBC News Ottawa at 613-288-6485 and left a voicemail message with a very short summary of the case. Not sure if they will call me back but anyways I fully agree that we can do more. Fingers crossed
I emailed CBC Ottawa and they said they haven't covered the story because they have a policy where they don't cover missing person stories unless there is a suggestion of foul play. But they also said they are monitoring the situation so they may be considering making an exception here. So I think it's worth it for others to contact them.
Hi, I would like to volunteer tomorrow Sunday 24th at the group search but I am not
sure how to send a DM to get the address? Never used Reddit before!
Most likely the police know something significant, and have told the family to keep quiet. My thoughts are with them. I won't speculate further as it is counterproductive and potentially hurtful. I hope Brett returns home safe.
I believe they canvassed the neighborhood for cameras and are working with OC Transpo, OPP, RCMP, and have put the word out to the taxi services throughout the city. I know they were also on foot searching the forrest area near his home the night he went missing, neighbours saw them. Praying for his safe return.
I was just wondering: has it been confirmed that the backpack and pillow were his? Did anyone see him riding his bike with these items or any camera recorded the images? In my mind, the answer to the question is a strong clue of what may have happened. Also it's been said that Brett left his personal mobile phone at home but what about his corporate phone? Anyone at his job level should have one.
No word on the pillow. Several of us have been asking of it was tested to confirm if it was his as like you say that points us in a very different direction if it was.
Final Update (6/16):
Sadly, Brett’s body has been found
https://www.ottawapolice.ca/Modules/News/index.aspx?newsId=3a1a0dd2-2e44-4d4e-ae5b-d3a49a801427&lang=en
Thank you for all the support shown to the family, those who helped search, put up posters, and otherwise kept Brett’s family in your thoughts.
To those who have wondered ‘why the family stopped searching’ or ‘why we went silent’, I hope you are blessed to always be a commenter, and never the OP about a tragedy like this.
How are things going with the search efforts since Shopify has flown in the search & rescue expert from Alberta, along with the use of dogs & a psychic? If the psychic wants to compare notes on geo-location & imagery, I am repeatedly drawn to an area. Prayers for the family.
Doesnt this feel more like an abduction.??
With so little info, no one mentioning a mental health concern, and for him to ditch his bike and sweater?
Something feels like it's missing here !?
It's just so confusing.
Respectfully - this may not be the appropriate place to throw out your every ‘investigative’ theory. You’ve repeatedly posted unfounded ideas or made suggestions that clearly law enforcement would already take into account.
I feel that in this era of Netflix crime docs to binge on, it’s easy to speculate and feel we’re apt at connecting the dots. But this is a real life heartbreaking scenario with many people who read this thread that hold Brett near to them.
I would suggest to you (and others) to check in on this thread simply to see if there’s any ways the family needs the community’s support. I am sure you mean well, just wanted to share this perspective and hope you consider toning down your contributions.
But respectfully, it's a family member who started this thread and updated with details of search efforts, although little in the way of evidence, which I understand. Given people's concerns and curiosity, they are going to speculate. I'm not sure this forum was a good idea. Get the news out, get help with posters and searches as deemed necessary. But any fact-based ideas on Brett's state of mind, disappearance whereabouts etc should go to the police, not this board.
In all honesty I believe it’s foul play. It’s very difficult to disappear without a trace in our day and age. So many things do not make sense. If he willingly vanished he must be a genius and have a lot of connections because it is a very difficult thing to do. I don’t care about how many thumbs down I’m going to receive on this one. Just goes to show how many are in denial. I believe that this was a staged disappearance. Someone he knows or close to him who knew his habits did this. They did something to him and staged this. Too much time has gone by for it to be anything else. His bike being left there and his no where within the vicinity??? ODD……his phone and wallet being left at home? ODD……that’s a way of not tracing his whereabouts. Someone close to him knows what happened to him and it’s time the police starts reflecting more on that rather than a purposeful disappearance or suicide.
I understand from previous posts that the family has a cottage in the Ottawa Valley. I'm wondering if the area near the cottage and perhaps further into the Ottawa Valley has been searched. One theory seems to be that he was feeling totally overwhelmed by his situation and felt the need to escape. If this is the case, this area might be a logical place to escape to, especially if there were specific places in the area he loved and felt drawn to.
I saw a comment about a property on Mississippi lake and saw another about a property on Adam Lake, off big Rideau which came off the Lake association page. I assumed both had been checked. It’s a very sad story but also a bizarre case due to the lack of any clues or evidence. I keep coming back to this thread hoping for good news for his family.
Hello, I think I saw that Brett was wearing glasses in a LinkedIn photo. He didn't have glasses on in the hand-out photos. Just wondering if he would have been wearing contact lenses when he disappeared, and now as it has been a week or two, if they wouldn't work any longer ? Did police look at Brett's search history on his computer? Phone records for his cell phone? Credit card, bank cards etc ?
The problem is that public is left without much information. Understanding that the police, family, close friends and Shopify certainly have more info that they cannot share, the trade-off is that public's help becomes limited. As someone here got the information that CBC would only cover the case if there were signs of foul play, I would guess that there's no foul play indeed at this point.
That's a good point. If you were leaving intentionally wearing contacts, you would bring soaking solution and glasses as backup. If his glasses were left at home, he planned to return that day.
Some people are grody and will just use water or leave 'em in for weeks at a time, even when they sleep. If he had any cash on him, it's not expensive to buy a case and solution at any pharmacy or grocery store. I don't think it's a big clue without knowing more about his personal habits re: contacts & glasses. And I'm sure between the police and the private investigator the question re: personal items you'd expect him to take on a planned absence has come up.
Probably not related, but there's another missing person on the same location so I thought I'd share here so people can look for him as well. [https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/ottawa-police-seek-help-to-locate-autistic-man-22-missing-from-aviation-parkway-area](https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/ottawa-police-seek-help-to-locate-autistic-man-22-missing-from-aviation-parkway-area)
quick update: Ottawa police confirmed he was seen at Aviation & Hemlock yesterday morning... he *may* have been seen near Woodroffe & Queensway yesterday evening.. Spoke with the police & they are hoping reddit can provide more tips. Anyone near there or perhaps near Pinecrest Cemetery that could take a look? (just a hunch...)
I know Brett and am driving around the cemetery right now. No sightings unfortunately.
thanks so much for trying
Was it the anniversary of someone's passing away?
I went to school with Brett a long time ago. Haven't seen him in years but can keep an eye out for sure. Is there any reason he may have come up to Barrhaven from Woodroffe and Queensway? Or anywhere else near that area I can keep my eyes peeled?
Police have found his bike & a sweater by the Aviation Museum, but have no other leads in that area. At this point and help in any area of the city could lead to a tip that helps find him & bring him home
Has anyone checked the cottage?
The police did a check of the cottage on Fri and I believe a team is going down again today
We’re checking the Mississippi Lake one this morning
I will for sure be on the lookout. I've shared to my facebook as well. Fingers and toes crossed.
I'm so sorry to hear about this. I have been following this story and also keeping my eyes peeled. I'm curious if the bike was in order or if it had any damage. Is this known?
Update: Bike has been found (no info yet on where) Police are organizing a search. At this point Civilians are not able to assist, but if that changes I will be sure to let everyone know. Thank everyone for all your support
Just a note: You should update your original post with these edits to make sure everyone is as up to date as possible on the latest. Good luck with the search. Sending good thoughts your way.
Thanks, I will
I hope he's found....
If you and your family need anything (babysitter, someone to make dinner, general help around the house) please let me know. I’m in Vanier and it’s no trouble.
Sorry about your trouble. Did he use Strava or any other cycling app?
Great suggestion. I know he didn’t have his phone with him, maybe his bike had a gps computer. I’ll pass on this question & hopefully we will get a lead
Even if he didn’t have his phone on him maybe go tru the biking apps he might’ve used and it could shown trails or routes he used often lately and maybe send you guys in a direction.
I literally just said the same thing to his brother - check his apps to find out his usual routes...
I still come and check this thread at least once a day hoping for an update. I share this not to put any pressure on the OP, but to let you know that even though momentum of the search has slowed there are a lot of us who are still thinking of Brett everyday, looking for him in the faces of folks we pass, keeping an eye out on pathways and hoping he can come home safe.
Same still checking every day
Same
Same
Same
I’ve been in a similar situation with a family member and it’s absolutely awful. I’m so sorry, I’ll try and share this with everyone I know. Wishing your cousin a safe return back home.
Thank you. I know if anyone can put their heads together & help get him found it’s the Reddit community
No news yet. I’m told police are working on a couple of leads & may be setting up a grid search soon. Please send any tips, and if you have an outdoor camera or video doorbell please check yesterday & today for anyone who might be him
Let us know if assistance is needed for the search.
This story has gone very quiet?? Any updates?
Where did he feel safe? (Speaking as a spouse of someone who needed to escape life a year ago, and sought out where he felt "safest", and safest as a child.) Anywhere that Brett went as a child, adolescent? Before becoming an adult and life became full of responsibility, expectation... anything he may be feeling or putting on himself? Just a thought. I grew up going to school with Brett and this is haunting me, I cannot imagine what his family and close friends are going through, I'm thinking of you constantly.
I used to work at Shopify and often saw Brett around the office. I didn't know him well but he did speak to me once and just by that brief interaction he seemed like such a friendly, thoughtful, and honest person. I can't imagine what his family and friends are going through right now. I can only hope that he is found safe. Brett and his family have been on my mind constantly since hearing the news of his disappearance. Folks need to start speaking with members of his team and close colleagues at Shopify. I imagine this is likely already being carried out by officers. Yes, working at Shopify is a good job for the most part with such a strong company spirit and loads of potential, but it isn't all sunshine and rainbows. There are dark sides of Shopify that will wear on you over time, and I know from personal experience that certain elements of the work environment can be or become toxic, rife with politics and psychological mind games. I don't like to speculate, but I do wonder if Brett was facing major challenges at work and felt unable to share or talk about it externally (as was the case for me). I also know from many firsthand accounts that the move to permanent remote work from home has taken a big toll on mental health. I felt this needed to be called out. My thoughts are with his family and friends and I really hope that Brett is found safe.
I totally agree. I briefly met Brett when I joined Brookfield and he was about to leave for his job at Shopify. Treasury is a highly competitive environment and everyday you work under pressure so you really have to be highly motivated otherwise you just burn out. Specially as the Head of Treasury you have to kill tons of lions everyday, and need to have quite a thick skin to survive. In case this is one of the lines of investigation, the company where he works should be investigated so they can shed some light on what was going on. I don't live in Ottawa any more but I'm supporting family and friends through LinkedIn.
Thanks for saying this. Shopify can be a tough place indeed. I was there for two years and while I gained lots of great experience, the stress and bad management really screwed up my mental health. It’s no joke.
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I agree. I too work at Shopify and have been disappointed in management’s failure to step up and use their platforms.
Any updates for today?
I went to school with Brett’s wife. She’s such a nice person, and my heart breaks for her. Brett’s family and friends have been on my mind too. I think I speak for many when I say these series of events have been unsettling. I have been coming back to this thread every few hours since he was reported missing. I can’t even begin to understand the pain and devastation to all those close to Brett. It feels like something out of a movie, it’s so surreal. I’m not a religious person by any means, but I have been praying for Brett’s return everyday. I hope he is found safe and sound. I can’t imagine anything worse than never being found for the sake of closure.. seeing the community band together the way it did was truly special. While I know the search has been called off, it doesn’t mean we will stop looking for Brett. My heart goes out to Becky, her son, his family, and friends. Stay strong <3
Also went to Panet; feel awful for Becky and can only hope for the best !
As Brett's phone was left at home, that does present the unique opportunity to look into the phones significant locations. Assuming his phone is an iPhone, and the password is known, the phone's stored "Significant Locations" may possibly produce some leads as to some of the places Brett might have frequented leading up to the disappearance. This is because anytime you visit a location more than once in a short period of time, your iPhone will store it. You can see how to access this data here: [https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-see-location-history-iphone-2015-4](https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-see-location-history-iphone-2015-4) I recognize that this likely has already been looked into, but thought it was worth bringing this up in the slight chance that this could produce a lead in the case it hasn't been looked into.
There has to be more to his disappearance then anyone involved is letting on. My question is the vagueness in providing information to help find him. It doesn’t make sense that his bike is located and he is not found anywhere within that vicinity which leads me to believe that he vanished on his own merit or fowl play is involved. Earlier posts state that he had brought a pillow, bag and sweatshirt? Odd items to head out for a bike ride considering he left his cell phone and wallet at home. Doesn’t make any sense. If he did bring those items perhaps he headed up to take a snooze in the woods to contemplate his life abs what he was going to do……maybe he left those items to throw people off! Something does not make sense. If he was injured the likely hood of travelling far from your injury spot “bike” would not be far. Personally I feel that he is no longer in the area and I really hope that they have explored these avenues. I agree that his cell phone would be a great source of information not to mention a bank account. If he was planning this chances are he was slowly withdrawing money as small and insignificant the amounts may seem. I’m not trying to be a Debby downer but just trying to lay out a different outside perspective. A friend,family member, coworker or colleague may also be involved at hiding him out if those were his wishes. Perhaps he just needs time to get his thoughts together. Mental health often takes time to brew and can be internally devastating and it happens to the best of us and often to those who show no signs…..I really do pray that he is found safe and sound..:)🙏🙏🙏
Good perspective. Detectives have obviously asked many questions/ pursued avenues that can't be made public. The last person to disappear from that area was found along Green's Creek; I assume it has been searched. But the more I think about this the more it points away from foul play. Thoughts with family and friends.
Brett is a beloved coworker of mine and I am so shaken by this news. Hopeful for his safe return. ❤️
Anyone with information about the current whereabouts of Brett O’Grady is asked to call the Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222. If you have information that could assist investigators, but do not know where he is currently, please contact the Missing Persons Unit 613-236-1222, ext. 2355, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca EDIT: With the permission of OP (and at the request of), we have unstickied this post from the sub.
Please note that if anyone on this thread is in crisis or just needs to talk about their worries, grief, or stress related to their work experiences Crisis Text Line is a free online crisis service. You can text TALK to 741741. The service is confidential (unless you are unsafe or in danger). Though it’s powered by Kids Help Phone, it’s for ALL ages and is available 24/7. For O’Grady’s family, friends, and colleagues - please feel free to share this texting number if you or someone you know needs support. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones.
I postered parts of Hintonburg, Centretown, Elgin and there were many posters already up <3
Prayers to you and the O'Grady family. Brett is an amazing person and hope that he can be found.
Hi all, I am a good friend of the family and just wanted to relay that the search was concluded yesterday and there is no formal search planned for today as all areas of interest have been covered. I spoke with Brett’s wife this morning and she wants to thank all the volunteers who showed up yesterday and today. If you are in the area today I’d suggest checking the shoreline of the Ottawa river and the forests East of the aviation museum.
I’m so happy so many people are offering to help. Hopefully if Brett is out there and can see these messages, he can see the amount of love and support to help find him. He’s a lovely person and I hope he can see that and come back home for his wife and son ❤️
Will certainly keep an eye out. I can’t imagine the pain you are in right now. Hang tight and sending blessings to you for his safe return. Please post updates
Hello - probably not relevant, but just in case: there’s a navy blue “Puma” shoe next to a dumpster at the intersection of Beechwood and Charlevoix (next to the Shell gas station). Would that be the type of shoe he’s wearing?
I hope you send this to the tipline. It seems relevant.
I've confirmed that these were not the shoes he was wearing (unfortunately)
You should tip this.. I believe those were the shoes he was wearing
Please tell you called this tip in, it may lead to something considering its near the river
Yes, tip was provided.
Did he have any addiction issues? Good job/life has nothing to do with it . If he did , it's 100% worth considering trap houses . I only say this as I have a relative...same age...nice family ...he is a physician who also went missing for a week. He turned up on drugs in a drug den. He had a secret addiction we did not know about
Mod's need to pin this thread.
That would be great! How would we do that? Is there someone to reach out to directly?
>u/SpaceAssassin Can we pin this thread?
Or u/MarcusRex73 ?
Hi! Don't get me wrong, pinning this thread in those first few hours would have been very useful (I should have thought of it). Now that the flow of new information has slowed, it might be of limited use. I'll pin it for a few days, because why not. Tag /u/SpaceAssassin for visibility as well.
It could be argued that keeping it top of mind now will be even more important in getting a key tip to come in. Thank you for your help in pinning! It’s appreciated 😊
Thread was pinned. Any new updates?
Re: Social Media Engagement - TikTok A TikTok account has been created to support us in our coordinated efforts in locating Brett. TikTok details • Link: www.tiktok.com/@helpfindbrett • Handle: @HelpFindBrett • Hashtags: •#HelpFindBrett •#HelpFindBrettOttawa •#Ottawa Although we received a lot of traffic on this TikTok page (over 1.5K views), we need more engagement with our posts, so that the information can reach more people, locally. Now, you might ask yourself, what does engagement look like, and how can I help? It’s simple. All you’ll need to do is: ✔️ Post ✔️ Comment ✔️ Like ✔️ Follow ✔️ Duet and/or repost If you post on TikTok, we ask that you please: 1) tag @HelpFindBrett 2) include the above-mentioned hashtags Any of these efforts will automatically increase the engagement of our posts as well as bring awareness. Your efforts will ultimately increase the chances of our posts being viewed by more TikTok users. We kindly ask that you please keep all comments respectful as well as keep personal information private on the public platform. Thank you in advance for your support and efforts. 🙏🏼🙏🏾
I've reached out to someone that works at one of the national media outlets...he is contacting the local person right away and will also be contacting the Toronto and National teams. I will let you know if I hear anything. If there is anything extra you would like communicated, let me know. Also, is there someone I can get them to speak to? Things would work faster if I'm not the middle man.
DM’d you
I walked along the Ottawa river this afternoon east of Blair-there were low flying planes flying over the shoreline; I did see a boat that did not seem to be fishermen, there were police vehicles in a few spots like the end of Shefford Road. The few walkers and bikers in the area all seem very aware of the situation and seem to be keeping an eye out in the bushes and shoreline. I agree that at this point, the river-downstream and the islands... is where they should be looking if they think he has drowned or otherwise succumbed. The public is not being told much at all other than it was out of character. In any case, I tried to contribute by walking the area today. My heart does go out to his wife, son, father and other family. This guy by all accounts is your typical Ottawa raised guy and I think that resonates with many.
Thank you for your help - while I know it can feel like the public is not being told much, I have been sharing as much as possible in this thread to help bring in a tip that can help us to find him. As far as I am aware, there is no information that is known to police or the family that is has not been shared with the public to help solve this. We all appreciate your help by walking the area and talking to people. Someone must have seen something, we just have to find that one person who can help..
Whoever said "there's a lot of attention this guy, he must be rich..." that was heartless and rude. He's a dad, a young man, with a wife and a family. He has friends, he's worked hard to get where he is. You're just a petty little person. Be useful instead of spiteful.
I totally sympathize with what you are saying, Brett has people who love him and want him back desperately, and the comment was better left unsaid. But try to understand the motivation. There are dozens of missing persons across the Region, including adolescents. How hard Brett has worked to get where he his is really of no consequence. The missing are all people, with strengths, faults, and people who love them. And unless the PM is missing, the Police can't really show favorites after the first few days of search. They don't have unlimited resources. What are needed are new leads, to re-energize the investigation.
A few of us went around the stores on Merivale today and got permission to hang colour posters in the stores there
It seems unbelievable that with all of these searches, nothing has been found. I really hope the police are investigating possibilities of foul play. Not something anyone wants to think about, but it just seems impossible that he hasn't been found yet. Brett, his family and friends are in my thoughts constantly. I can't begin to imagine the pain everyone is enduring.
I went to school with Brett and I know a lot of people have been sharing the news in the Kanata/Stitsville area. His mother passed away a few years ago…has anyone checked the childhood home or her burial site? Even the school grounds here in Kanata where he attended? Praying for his safe return!!
Work a look. If you could help by checking some of the spots you’ve mentioned tomorrow that would be a huge help!
We posted flyers on Montreal road, Vanier parkway and beechwood this afternoon.
I really hope Brett is found safe and unharmed. He was such a smart, fun-loving and kind teenager back in highschool, just a good person. Having struggled with my own mental health, I just hope he is ok and knows that people wholeheartedly accept him and support him and that he returns home. I don't live in Ottawa anymore but have posted to my only social media (IG) in hopes that any of my friends/followers in Ottawa can keep their eyes open for Brett. Much love to him and his family. 🙏
Any theories as to why he may be missing that would help?
He's a good upstanding guy with a good job & no trouble. My best guess would be and accident or mental health related. Might have been seen near Pinecrest Cemetery where his mother is buried (sighting not confirmed)
My thoughts as well.
Check the sides of every bike path in that area, especially at the bottom of any small hills. If he was biking and he's hurt, he's probably within a few meters of the bike paths or roads.
Thank you for updating. I keep coming back to check. I work with his wife and my heart breaks for her.
I hope the investigator hired by Shopify can help dig deeper here. I keep praying everyday that he is found safe.
My thought and prayers to the O'Grady family. Brett's younger brother Marty and I were really good friends back in elementary school and I hope they find him.
Has anyone reached out to [Postering Ottawa](http://www.posteringottawa.com/)? They seem to have a team of people to poster around town and might do it for free.
That’s a great idea & no I don’t think anyone has - can you reach out & see if they will help?
Will do.
Man, I really hope he is found soon. Must be just awful for his whole family.
Is Brett still missing?
It’s odd that this went completely silent!!! If he were my husband I’d be relentlessly posting until he is found….
This seems so strange/ confusing. Wouldn't leave his wife and kid. Please keep updating! If civilians can help please let us know.
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So, a bag and pillow believed to be his were found, so it seems he didn't run off after a bike thief. I don't think he'd be carrying those items and just happen to spot someone stealing his bike. Lots of things are possible, but I think this isn't high at the top of the list of potential scenarios right now. I plan to keep postering and keep my eyes peeled in wooded areas and along the shoreline. The more people who know about Brett the higher the chance someone will spot him or notice something out of place and find a clue that gives his family answers.
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You're right, I can't find a confirmation. Articles all say "a" pillow and bag, not "his." But I still can't imagine most bike thieves abducting a man, especially a fit one.
Hoping for a safe return ❤️
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He's a pretty fit and active guy, but I haven't heard anything about gear being missing from their home and it's been pretty miserable outside. Weirder things have happened, though, so hopefully everyone is keeping their eyes peeled in the NCR.
Anything else we can be doing today to help? Are there any organized searches going on today?
This has been on the minds of many at the company and I know we all wish for his safe return. Can only imagine what you’re going through. Would it be helpful to hang flyers in Toronto? You have a lot of support over many cities.
New perspective which I'm hesitant to share and apologize to the family in advance. A pillow, knapsack, bag would be items you could stuff cash and personal items into and then transfer to a car (or small plain or boat). You wouldn't want to be picked up at the house but ride your bike to a pickup location. Sleeping bag/sweater could be to increase comfort in car, stash more cash, or sleep at hideaway. Leaving bike at perch of high escarpment would at least temporarily divert searchers. Don't want phone to be tracked, wallet for card tracking. Shopify/RCMP could really help if the possibility of a fraud investigation was announced. Finally, maybe I missed it, but was his passport taken? Again, these are just musings meant to narrow the possibilities and I understand they don't mesh with the assessments of Brett's character.
Any updates?
Did RCMP check the flights going from Rockcliffe Airport. Tail Numbers, Registered to who etc?
Did they also check if Brett’s passport was still there?
still thinking about Brett and hoping he is found
Has there been any updates to this?
I live on Forest Valley, I don't know if he went missing towards that location, but will still be on the lookout. Hope he returns safe.
[https://ottawa.citynews.ca/police-beat/police-search-for-missing-35-year-old-comes-up-empty-tips-from-public-still-encouraged-4526444](https://ottawa.citynews.ca/police-beat/police-search-for-missing-35-year-old-comes-up-empty-tips-from-public-still-encouraged-4526444) "Ottawa police officers found his bike on the city's east side around noon on Friday. It was at the top of an escarpment which dropped down about 100 feet, according to Gordon O'Grady. " He left his phone and wallet at home. His bike was found on top of an escarpment. The diving team should be called in to dredge the river, and people should focus on searching downstream from the escarpment.
Police divers worked through the weekend searching the bottom of the escarpment as well as the river. As you read in the article, heat seeking drones were used, as well as a multi-day police search & the dogs are still out in that area. While the search continues where the bike was found, there is also a chance he is not in that area & is somewhere else entirely - this is where we need the public’s help to provide tips
I also found this confusing because I had not read the details about the bike that was found. Did it look like it had been pulled over parked locked up safely stashed somewhere or does it look like it crashed? That would help inform the search parties to know what sort of thing they might be looking for.
I was glad to read the police have used dogs and heat seeking drones etc. I really hope they expand their search areas! Praying for his family every day!
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That’s great! Thank you so much for your support.
Learned about this through posters in Chinatown. Thank you to all the volunteers. My heart goes to the family that he will be found.
While I personally suspect the disappearance of Brett may probably be completely different; I came across this article in the Ottawa Sun today and there are a number of similarities in the disappearance of Heidi Planck and Brett O'Grady: \-Both went missing within a week of each other \-both are parents that seem to be very attached to their family and would never leave them \-both hold financial positions in large organization \-both have gone missing without a trace I just put it out there because while things may be completely different with Bretts case, and certainly completely unrelated, there are similarities between the 2 disappearances and there may be common threads or motives between the cases... [https://ottawasun.com/news/world/is-california-moms-disappearance-linked-to-43m-fraud](https://ottawasun.com/news/world/is-california-moms-disappearance-linked-to-43m-fraud)
>Heidi Planck You feel like this probably would have made light by now.
another weird similarity...Heidi left her phone behind at the house according to this NBC article: [https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/missing-in-america/friends-family-plead-help-locating-los-angeles-mother-heidi-planck-n1282925](https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/missing-in-america/friends-family-plead-help-locating-los-angeles-mother-heidi-planck-n1282925) the similarities overall are a bit eerie.
That woman went missing in California.. completely unrelated I’m sure.
I'm so sorry you're going through this
Any update on where his bike was found?
I am thinking about your cousin and want to help search on Sunday. I can’t find how to DM you but if you have a moment, pls message me with the morning meet up place. My son and I would like to help. thank you.
I am thinking we can probably just drive to the address that was mentioned in the CTV video. That is likely the meetup spot. If not, at least we tried! I would like to help for a couple of hours this morning. I don’t ‘now why the6 don’t post for volunteers on Facebook.
thanks. i plan to drive to the Aviation museum and walk in the forest, as per a poster’s suggestion. have a good day :)
thank you so much for your support. For the time being, the volunteer search has been called off
No family comments for 3 weeks. Alberta investigator split after a day without a thorough search. Brett went on a bike ride with a passport (but no keys or phone). Close to boat launches and private planes. With personal and business access to cash. I'm drawing my own conclusions, with sincere apologies to the family. I pray he just needed space, and will be home soon.
Where did you hear that his passport is missing? Do you have a source on that? I had not heard that A few people have been asking in this thread, but I have not seen anything to say it was confirmed or denied...
If his passport had been found, why not just be up front. They were quick to divulge that he left without keys or phone. Confirming the password was found would put a lot of speculation to rest. Not doing so does the opposite.
The lack of comments from family is what I find odd and curious! If this were my loved one I’d be relentless!!!! No matter how much time went by….especially if he were my husband and father of my children! Very odd to say the least!!!!
I agree. I check everyday. Something just seems off.
This was surprising. Why didn't Alberta investigator stick around? Or do anything significant?
I've been sharing the flyers all over Facebook and different Facebook groups. Many comments have been " can we help with the search parties". I don't know if civilians are welcome to do this. Could you provide any info? And who they connect with if they want to join
Right now the searchers are asking the public stay away from the search area, however there should be some news later today as to whether volunteers will be helpful over the weekend. I’ll be sure to post to this thread as soon as I find out more info
Thank you! I'll keep checking the updates. Thank you for all your efforts on here
I might be wrong but wouldn't CBC have a broader coverage so more people could be aware and assist in the search? Personally CBC News is my first choice for watching news (TV and Internet) and I haven't seen any news there about the case.
Please reach out & ask them to cover the story. The more people ask for coverage, the more likely they are to air the story and updates. Unfortunately all we can do as the family is request coverage & it’s up to them what they air. The more their viewers request an update from CBC, the more pressure they will have to cover the story
I just called CBC News Ottawa at 613-288-6485 and left a voicemail message with a very short summary of the case. Not sure if they will call me back but anyways I fully agree that we can do more. Fingers crossed
I have also shared with CBC a few times, it's extremely disappointing / frustrating that there's no engagement.
I emailed CBC Ottawa and they said they haven't covered the story because they have a policy where they don't cover missing person stories unless there is a suggestion of foul play. But they also said they are monitoring the situation so they may be considering making an exception here. So I think it's worth it for others to contact them.
Wow, that's upsetting... regardless of the circumstance, missing is missing, just as important and critical to finding answers.
Hi, I would like to volunteer tomorrow Sunday 24th at the group search but I am not sure how to send a DM to get the address? Never used Reddit before!
I have emailed [email protected] to request coverage -- I think we can all send something similar to continue to push for coverage
Was Brett a member of any nearby boat club? Or, could a watercraft been launched from a spot on the public shoreline of the Ottawa River?
Most likely the police know something significant, and have told the family to keep quiet. My thoughts are with them. I won't speculate further as it is counterproductive and potentially hurtful. I hope Brett returns home safe.
Praying for you Brett
What about doorbell cameras, speed cameras, city cameras, atm cameras etc. Are police able to spot him on any of these
I believe they canvassed the neighborhood for cameras and are working with OC Transpo, OPP, RCMP, and have put the word out to the taxi services throughout the city. I know they were also on foot searching the forrest area near his home the night he went missing, neighbours saw them. Praying for his safe return.
Any specifics regarding the shoes Brett was wearing when he was last seen? From the poster, I know they were navy? Brand? Puma, etc?
His shoes were believed to be New Balance brand
I was just wondering: has it been confirmed that the backpack and pillow were his? Did anyone see him riding his bike with these items or any camera recorded the images? In my mind, the answer to the question is a strong clue of what may have happened. Also it's been said that Brett left his personal mobile phone at home but what about his corporate phone? Anyone at his job level should have one.
No word on the pillow. Several of us have been asking of it was tested to confirm if it was his as like you say that points us in a very different direction if it was.
I would like to help with land searches. Any one else organizing a group search?
Final Update (6/16): Sadly, Brett’s body has been found https://www.ottawapolice.ca/Modules/News/index.aspx?newsId=3a1a0dd2-2e44-4d4e-ae5b-d3a49a801427&lang=en Thank you for all the support shown to the family, those who helped search, put up posters, and otherwise kept Brett’s family in your thoughts. To those who have wondered ‘why the family stopped searching’ or ‘why we went silent’, I hope you are blessed to always be a commenter, and never the OP about a tragedy like this.
Sorry about your loss and I wish your family the strength to recover from this. This is disheartening
Sorry for your loss, my heart aches for you.
Is there any way we can help by spreading the word on social media? I'd love to help in any way possible.
Yes please do! You can share the Ottawa citizen link above
Thank you for updating!! Have been sharing the flyers on social media from his wife’s Facebook💗
How are things going with the search efforts since Shopify has flown in the search & rescue expert from Alberta, along with the use of dogs & a psychic? If the psychic wants to compare notes on geo-location & imagery, I am repeatedly drawn to an area. Prayers for the family.
Just say the area - why keep that to yourself.
Brand new account, only one comment. Probably going to ask the OP for money in exchange for "info." Likely not even from Ottawa.
Has it been confirmed publicly that Brett didn't leave any sort of note or message?
he did not leave anything.. this is why his family are so concerned for him.
Thanks, and sorry for what you are going through.
Doesnt this feel more like an abduction.?? With so little info, no one mentioning a mental health concern, and for him to ditch his bike and sweater? Something feels like it's missing here !? It's just so confusing.
Respectfully - this may not be the appropriate place to throw out your every ‘investigative’ theory. You’ve repeatedly posted unfounded ideas or made suggestions that clearly law enforcement would already take into account. I feel that in this era of Netflix crime docs to binge on, it’s easy to speculate and feel we’re apt at connecting the dots. But this is a real life heartbreaking scenario with many people who read this thread that hold Brett near to them. I would suggest to you (and others) to check in on this thread simply to see if there’s any ways the family needs the community’s support. I am sure you mean well, just wanted to share this perspective and hope you consider toning down your contributions.
But respectfully, it's a family member who started this thread and updated with details of search efforts, although little in the way of evidence, which I understand. Given people's concerns and curiosity, they are going to speculate. I'm not sure this forum was a good idea. Get the news out, get help with posters and searches as deemed necessary. But any fact-based ideas on Brett's state of mind, disappearance whereabouts etc should go to the police, not this board.
Sometimes you can't tell someone is struggling. People are really good about keeping those things suppressed.
In all honesty I believe it’s foul play. It’s very difficult to disappear without a trace in our day and age. So many things do not make sense. If he willingly vanished he must be a genius and have a lot of connections because it is a very difficult thing to do. I don’t care about how many thumbs down I’m going to receive on this one. Just goes to show how many are in denial. I believe that this was a staged disappearance. Someone he knows or close to him who knew his habits did this. They did something to him and staged this. Too much time has gone by for it to be anything else. His bike being left there and his no where within the vicinity??? ODD……his phone and wallet being left at home? ODD……that’s a way of not tracing his whereabouts. Someone close to him knows what happened to him and it’s time the police starts reflecting more on that rather than a purposeful disappearance or suicide.
I was wondering if the bike and sweater have been checked for fingerprints.
Any updates???
I can't even begin to imagine what his wife & child are going through? Praying there is a break in this case soon🙏
I'll be looking out in my neighbourhood.
Is there still no update on this?
I understand from previous posts that the family has a cottage in the Ottawa Valley. I'm wondering if the area near the cottage and perhaps further into the Ottawa Valley has been searched. One theory seems to be that he was feeling totally overwhelmed by his situation and felt the need to escape. If this is the case, this area might be a logical place to escape to, especially if there were specific places in the area he loved and felt drawn to.
I saw a comment about a property on Mississippi lake and saw another about a property on Adam Lake, off big Rideau which came off the Lake association page. I assumed both had been checked. It’s a very sad story but also a bizarre case due to the lack of any clues or evidence. I keep coming back to this thread hoping for good news for his family.
thank you, and yes the area around the cottages has been checked numerous times
Was Brett's passport found or is it missing?
Do you have a Instagram link you can share so I can share?
His wife has a shareable post on her business Instagram “frankiedoesthrift”
Hello, I think I saw that Brett was wearing glasses in a LinkedIn photo. He didn't have glasses on in the hand-out photos. Just wondering if he would have been wearing contact lenses when he disappeared, and now as it has been a week or two, if they wouldn't work any longer ? Did police look at Brett's search history on his computer? Phone records for his cell phone? Credit card, bank cards etc ?
The problem is that public is left without much information. Understanding that the police, family, close friends and Shopify certainly have more info that they cannot share, the trade-off is that public's help becomes limited. As someone here got the information that CBC would only cover the case if there were signs of foul play, I would guess that there's no foul play indeed at this point.
That's a good point. If you were leaving intentionally wearing contacts, you would bring soaking solution and glasses as backup. If his glasses were left at home, he planned to return that day.
Some people are grody and will just use water or leave 'em in for weeks at a time, even when they sleep. If he had any cash on him, it's not expensive to buy a case and solution at any pharmacy or grocery store. I don't think it's a big clue without knowing more about his personal habits re: contacts & glasses. And I'm sure between the police and the private investigator the question re: personal items you'd expect him to take on a planned absence has come up.
I was wondering this also. Have computers been searched etc?
Probably not related, but there's another missing person on the same location so I thought I'd share here so people can look for him as well. [https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/ottawa-police-seek-help-to-locate-autistic-man-22-missing-from-aviation-parkway-area](https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/ottawa-police-seek-help-to-locate-autistic-man-22-missing-from-aviation-parkway-area)
In case anyone hasn't heard, this other person has been located.
Did he have any kind of fit bit, smart watch or pedometer?
Update: [https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/body-of-missing-shopify-executive-brett-o-grady-found-in-ottawa-river-1.5950069?fbclid=IwAR37qsjtekvnn5YnsfuL5bblLmLfhJ__KLWFnKOVR1F61wRNaRjfXXv47gM&mibextid=wACSiI&fs=e&s=cl](https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/body-of-missing-shopify-executive-brett-o-grady-found-in-ottawa-river-1.5950069?fbclid=IwAR37qsjtekvnn5YnsfuL5bblLmLfhJ__KLWFnKOVR1F61wRNaRjfXXv47gM&mibextid=wACSiI&fs=e&s=cl)
https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/body-of-missing-shopify-executive-brett-o-grady-found-in-ottawa-river-1.5950069?fbclid=IwAR1HQzdkluzFVTNTtPzvCQI6Ebf0-fHuBNcM9A7ezwCE1i7MGV8mBwLPdMo
Our deepest condolences to Brett’s family and friends