The human remains found in Guelph earlier this week belong to a man missing for nearly two years, police say.
Wayne Rutledge was reported missing on Dec. 16, 2012.
According to police, dental records were key in identifying him as the man found dead Monday in a wooded area near Arrow Road.
Foul play is not suspected in his death.
At the time of his disappearance, Rutledge was 37 years old, and just months removed from leaving Orangeville for Guelph – where, family members say, he hoped to get more help for mental health and addiction issues.
“Wayne will always be remembered for his strength and courage to never give up in light of his battle with mental health and addictions,” family members said in an email.
“We hope and wish for a future of improved access to mental health and addiction services for all, free of barriers, so that no person or family will ever have to experience what we have.”
In the weeks following Rutledge’s disappearance, police conducted a large-scale search for him.
That search took them to campgrounds and wooded areas, including some near the secluded ravine where his remains were found this week.
