This week, the OPP announced a major development in an unsolved mystery that devastated a small community in northern Ontario.
As reported by TimminsToday, police say they’ve identified the specific pickup truck believed to have been involved in a hit-and-run incident that killed a young woman in Moose Factory, Ont., more than two years ago.
The victim was 21-year-old Loni Chum. A beloved daughter and sister, she was walking home from a friend’s house on the early morning of Nov. 7, 2023 when she was struck and left for dead.
Police have released a new video with footage of the dark-coloured pickup truck — and a renewed plea for information. There is currently a $100,000 reward for details leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.
“Despite extensive investigation, we are still trying to uncover the truth in Loni’s tragic death,” Detective Inspector Tom McVey said in the video.
For Loni’s grieving father, the new lead offers fresh hope after so many sleepless nights.
“I just want my daughter’s case to be solved, and I want closure for our family and for the community,” said Robert Chum, speaking to Village Media’s Closer Look podcast.
Robert has been a fierce advocate for his daughter, doing everything he can to keep her case in the spotlight. Every day, he adds a new post to his TikTok page in her memory.
Asked if he has a message for the person who was behind the wheel of that pickup truck, Robert did not hesitate.
“It's time to admit what you did that night,” he said. “All I ask is: come forward. Close this case. Be honest with yourself. Be honest with your family. Be honest with us.”
Anyone with information on Loni's death is encouraged to call the OPP at 1-800-310-1122, or contact their nearest policing authority. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
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