A body found Tuesday morning in a remote, rural area of Pitt Meadows has been identified as that of a 26-year-old Maple Ridge man, but his name has not been released.

Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), in partnership with the Ridge Meadows RCMP, is investigating the death, but Pound said the man "appears to have met with foul play," and added that "homicide is suspected."

An autopsy to determine the cause of death was being performed Wednesday afternoon and should be completed "in a day or two," Pound told The TIMES.

The corpse was discovered by a passerby in the area of 224th Street and 144th Avenue - around the Blaney Bog, Timberline Ranch, and Golden Eagle Cranberry Farm - at about 10: 30 a.m., said Pound.

The man's identity was confirmed by police Wednesday, but was not being released pending notification of all his family, said Sgt. Jennifer Pound, spokes-person for IHIT.

"We understand the public's interest, but the family must be notified first," she explained.

This is the first homicide in the community this year. In fact, it is the first murder in Pitt Meadows or Maple Ridge since 2010, when there were two, according to RCMP Supt. Dave Walsh.

From 2003 to 2011 there were a total of 14 homicides in the community.

"This is devastating. Definitely our hearts go out to the family of the victim," said Pitt Meadows Mayor Deb Walters.

"I don't believe this is indicative of our City. I want to reassure the public that we live in a safe community and would encourage anyone to come forward if they know anything," Walters added.

Members of IHIT are asking for the public's help in solving the case.

Anyone with information about the homicide or the victim is invited to speak to investigators. People can call the IHIT tipline at 1-877-551-4448, or email ihittipline@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

smclaren@mrtimes.com