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The small township of Montague, Ontario, is grappling with the unsettling revelation that more human remains have been unearthed on a residential property. This latest discovery, which has been linked to a man missing for nearly four years, is part of a troubling series of events that have left the community in shock. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) confirmed on Tuesday that the remains belong to Lawrence Bertrim, who was last seen in September 2022. His case is now intertwined with those of two other men whose remains were previously found at the same location.
Ongoing Investigation Uncovers Tragic Past
The grim findings on Kelly Jordan Road are part of a broader investigation that has seen the OPP return to the property multiple times. Bertrim, aged 42 at the time of his disappearance, was reported missing from downtown Smiths Falls, located just a short distance from Montague. The police have not yet determined the cause of his death, with Detective Inspector Jennifer Patton emphasising that their inquiry remains “far from complete.”
This marks the third set of human remains discovered at the site. The initial set was located on October 30 last year, during a police search of the property. Subsequent investigations identified these remains as belonging to Robbie Thomson, a Smiths Falls resident who had been missing since 2020. Three individuals—Christopher Fenton, Erin Mackie, and Joshua Belfiori—are currently facing charges of first-degree murder in connection with Thomson’s death, while a fourth individual, Mark Fenton, is charged with being an accessory after the fact.
The Stories of the Missing
In addition to Bertrim and Thomson, another set of remains was found last month, identified as those of Robert Lambert. Lambert, who was reported missing in November 2018 at the age of 75, had lived a quiet life in Ontario after relocating from the United States. His circumstances were particularly poignant; following the passing of his fiancée in 2016, Lambert had no immediate family left. Despite initial reports suggesting he might have returned to the U.S., there is no evidence he left Canada.
Det. Insp. Serge Acay addressed the community in a social media video, expressing confidence that someone holds vital information regarding Lambert’s disappearance. The OPP has offered a reward of $50,000 for tips leading to an arrest and conviction in both Lambert’s and Bertrim’s cases.
Community Reactions and Official Statements
The property remains cordoned off and under police surveillance as the investigation continues. Local officials have expressed their condolences and concern for the community. Karen Jennings, reeve of Montague Township, described the recent developments as “heartbreaking news.” She acknowledged the distress this situation has caused residents and the families connected to the victims, reassuring them that the OPP has indicated there is no immediate threat to public safety.
“The municipality understands that reports of further discoveries can be deeply unsettling,” Jennings stated. “Our priority is to respect the privacy of the families while allowing investigators to do their work.”
Why it Matters
The ongoing investigation into the discoveries on Kelly Jordan Road serves as a stark reminder of the unresolved tragedies that can linger in communities. The cases of Lawrence Bertrim, Robbie Thomson, and Robert Lambert highlight the critical importance of public awareness and cooperation with law enforcement. As the OPP seeks answers, the community is urged to remain vigilant and supportive, emphasising the collective responsibility to ensure justice is served and that the memories of the missing are honoured.
