An autopsy performed on a burnt body found in the snow dump area south of the Alfred Jenkins Field House has confirmed the victim to be 24-year-old Taye Rae Anne Sinclair of Saskatoon.

Sinclair was previously reported missing to Saskatoon police on March 14. Her body was discovered on March 15.

A family spokesperson released a statement on Thursday asking for space and privacy while they prepare a ceremony for her burial, and process her loss.

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“Taya was a young Indigenous woman—a granddaughter, a mother, a child, and a dearly loved family member and friend,” reads the statement. “Life may take us down different paths, but the family would like to remind everyone that Taya mattered. She was a warm person with a spirit, a heart, and a voice that was valuable to many people.

“The family would also like to thank everyone for their prayers and words of support. They ask that you please continue to hold them in your prayers as Taya makes her journey to the spirit world.”

The family spokesperson said there would be no further comment at this time, however the family expects to hold a media opportunity in the coming days.

The Prince Albert Police Service have confirmed Sinclair was the victim of a homicide. They will continue the investigation with help from the Chief Coroner’s Office and Saskatoon Police Service.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Prince Albert Police Service at 306-953-4222, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS.

Anyone wishing to help with funeral costs can send an email money transfer (EMT) to donnaaaub@icloud.com.

Editor’s Note: this story was updated with comments from a family spokesperson on Thursday, March 17.