RNC considers Paradise death suspicious, release identity of body found

The RNC has confirmed the body found in the Topsail Road area of Paradise Wednesday afternoon is that of Patricia Anne Rice, 53, who was reported missing earlier this week.

And at this time, the RNC considers the death suspicious in nature and is seeking the assistance of the general public by asking that anyone with any information in relation to the incident to come forward.

The body was found about 4:20 p.m. Wednesday in a marsh area off a walking trail, near the McDonald's location on Topsail Road in Paradise.

The area has been cordoned off to the public until further notice as the RNC's major crime unit continues its investigation.

The ROVERS Search and Rescue team is currently on scene assisting in the investigation.

On Tuesday, the RNC issued a news release seeking help in locating Rice who had been reported missing. The report stated she was last seen at 3 a.m. near the Tim Horton's outlet further up the street from the area where her body was discovered.

Investigators are asking anyone with information in relation to this incident to contact the RNC at 729-8000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You can provide information anonymously on the NL Crime Stoppers Website at www.nlcrimestoppers.com.