Earlier this week, authorities revealed that the remains of Lawrence Bertrim, a third individual, were discovered on a rural property located north of the tranquil town of Smiths Falls in eastern Ontario. Mayor Shawn Pankow expressed that the recent finding may evoke mixed feelings as it offers hope for missing persons like Bertrim, who vanished nearly four years ago, while also providing a chance to honor him with dignity and offer closure.
This grim discovery marks the latest development in a wooded 16-hectare area off Kelly Jordan Road in Montague, near Smiths Falls, approximately 80 kilometers southwest of Ottawa. Just two weeks prior, the remains of Robert Lambert, missing for an extended period, were also found. Additionally, earlier last year, the remains of Robbie Thomson, who went missing three years ago, were located. While three individuals have been implicated in Thomson’s demise, one other individual faces charges related to the crime.
Despite the fact that the remains of these three men were found in the same location, law enforcement has not explicitly linked their deaths. Authorities are urging the public to allow them the necessary time and space to conduct a thorough investigation and provide closure to the families of Bertrim and Lambert.
Mayor Pankow highlighted the unusual nature of these events for Smiths Falls, a community known for economic fluctuations tied to the Hershey’s chocolate factory and more recently, a cannabis producer. The town, with around 9,000 inhabitants, is not accustomed to such unsettling incidents emerging from the ongoing situation on Kelly Jordan Road.
The disappearances of Bertrim and Thomson in 2023 had instilled fear and speculation in the community, which was later alleviated following the apprehension of the four individuals connected to Thomson’s case. Mayor Pankow expressed confidence that further charges would be forthcoming, allaying concerns about potential additional perpetrators.
OPP Sergeant Erin Cranton emphasized the ongoing investigative efforts and the need to uncover the circumstances surrounding these deaths. Families and residents are eagerly awaiting answers as the investigations progress, seeking closure and justice for the victims.
The timeline of events leading up to the recent discoveries includes Lambert’s property purchase in 2004, his subsequent disappearance in 2018, and the involvement of individuals connected to the Kelly Jordan Road property. The arrest and charges against three individuals in Thomson’s death in 2025 offered some solace to his family but underscored the need for closure through the recovery of his remains.
As the investigations continue, authorities remain committed to seeking information and offering rewards for valuable tips related to the cases of Lawrence Bertrim and Robbie Thomson. The community remains vigilant, hoping for a resolution to these unsettling events that have disrupted the town’s sense of safety and tranquility.
