Newman’s daughter makes plea for information

The daughter of former Merritt City Councilor Claire Newman has made a public plea for information that may help solve the tragic hit and run that resulted in Newman’s untimely death more than a year ago.

Following Lauren Newman’s heartfelt plea urging anyone with information to come forward, Valemount RCMP are renewing its call for public assistance in solving the incident which occurred on July 4, 2023, shortly before midnight.

Claire Newman, who served as a city councilor in Merritt and as the President of the Logan Lake City Council Community Forest for 14-years, was struck by an unidentified vehicle. Despite exhaustive efforts by the RCMP and community, the person remains at large.

Lauren Newman, Claire’s daughter, recently made a heartfelt plea on camera, urging anyone with information to come forward.

“We have come through a lot of rough challenges over this year. We have had her service on September 2023. Lots of people came and said beautiful things and were very honoring of her, ” Newman said. ” But I would say not having my mother to talk to and be there to give me that advice really is a hard thing to deal with and shouldn’t have been this way.”

She continued, emphasizing the importance of doing the right thing:

“Car accidents happen all the time. Things happen all the time. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do the right thing and come forward and give people the closure they need. If anybody knows anything or has any leads or tips, please contact the Valemount RCMP.”

The RCMP is urging anyone with information about the incident, no matter how minor it may seem, to contact the Valemount RCMP Detachment at (250) 566-4466 or Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.

The community’s assistance is crucial in bringing closure to the family and ensuring justice for Claire Newman. The RCMP is committed to resolving this case and appreciates any help the public can provide.