UNIDENTIFIED - Regina John Doe (1995) - Regina, Saskatchewan

By S.M.

Updated: 11/13/22 
Published 07/25/20

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SOLVED

On August 12, 2021, Michael Kirov was identified after 26 years using DNA analysis.

Regina John Doe_CanadaUnsolved_Unidentified_Regina_Saskatchewan.png — `Unidentified Male`

`July 22, 1995`
`Regina, Saskatchewan`
`Est. Age: 18 - 30`

Regina John Doe
A.k.a. “Dave”

Died July 22, 1995
Est. Age: 18-30 
Height: 5’9” 
Regina, Saskatchewan

He called himself “Brian” and went by “Dave.” He had neat brown hair, blue eyes, and looked to be in his early 20s. He said he was from Ontario, but he might have had ties to the Atlantic region. He enjoyed Stephen King novels, high end cars, and discussing politics. He listened to “preppy music,” and had a tape of the Lion King soundtrack. He was well groomed, clean shaven, and very conscious of personal hygiene. ⁣⁣⁣
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In the days before he ended his life, he met a hitchhiker named Randy Wakelin.

On July 22, 1995, “Dave” and Wakelin traveled from Strathmore, Alberta, to Swift Current, arriving in Regina, Saskatchewan on July 24, 1995. For several days, they looked for carnival jobs. After Dave’s death on July 28, 1995, Wakelin came forward with details about his mannerisms, moods & interests – which could hold the key to his identity nearly 25 years later. ⁣⁣⁣
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According to Wakelin, “Dave” was unfamiliar with the “transient lifestyle”; he “knew nothing about drugs,” didn’t understand street slang, and could “barely hitch a ride.” He was dressed well & appeared to be educated; he spoke about universities and fraternities, and mentioned heading back “out east” – possibly to the Maritimes or eastern U.S. He knew a lot about the ocean, and spoke of it often. He avoided eye contact, but had excellent manners. When they ate at fast food restaurants, he’d spread a napkin across his lap. He wrote in a diary with a silver fountain pen. The diary has never been found. ⁣⁣⁣

Regina John Doe_1995_Regina_Saskatchewan_Unidentified.png

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”Dave” didn't like discussing his family, who were possibly wealthy. However, he spoke of his breakup with a woman named "Kathy," who had left him for another man. One of the most compelling clues about “Dave” is the silver rose brooch – “the Christmas Rose” – which seemed more important to him than anything else in his possession. It was found in his pocket when he died. It may have belonged to Kathy.⁣⁣⁣
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“Dave” was 5’9” and 18-30 years old. He may have spent time in Kamloops, British Columbia, at Padova City Resorts Inc.⁣
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We may not know why he ended his life, but his life is important. Somewhere, someone is wondering what happened to their son, brother, family member or friend. No tip is too small.