Matthew Hutchings Vancouver Death – The city of Vancouver is mourning the tragic death of 20-year-old Matthew Hutchings, an Indigenous student at the University of British Columbia (UBC), whose disappearance and subsequent death have left his family and community in deep grief. Matthew, who was last seen near the UBC campus in the early hours of May 24, 2025, was reported missing after boarding a B-Line bus at around 2:00 a.m. on that fateful morning. A massive search effort by Vancouver Police and volunteers ensued, but it was with heavy hearts that authorities confirmed Matthew’s body was discovered on May 26, 2025.
Matthew Hutchings’ untimely death has sent waves of sorrow throughout his community, not only in Vancouver but also within the broader Indigenous communities of which he was a proud member. His family, friends, classmates, and faculty at UBC are now grappling with the loss of a young man who was known for his kind and thoughtful nature, his deep sense of belonging to his heritage, and his hopeful future.
On May 24, 2025, Matthew Hutchings boarded a B-Line bus near the University of British Columbia around 2 a.m. He was believed to have been in the vicinity of Commercial and Broadway by 6 a.m. the same morning. His sudden disappearance sparked immediate concern among his family and friends, and Vancouver Police quickly began a search for the missing young man. The search efforts were bolstered by the local community, who offered their time and support in the hopes of locating Matthew.
As days passed, the family and public held onto hope, fervently awaiting any sign of Matthew’s whereabouts. Unfortunately, two days later, on May 26, Vancouver Police confirmed that Matthew’s body had been found. While no foul play is suspected at this time, the investigation remains ongoing, leaving many questions unanswered. The cause of his death has not been disclosed, but the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and the final hours of his life have prompted widespread concern within the community.
Matthew’s death is an immense loss for his family and the broader Vancouver and Indigenous communities. The grief-stricken Hutchings family, who had held out hope for Matthew’s safe return, now faces the heartbreaking reality of his passing.
A Kind and Thoughtful Young Man
Matthew Hutchings is remembered by those who knew him as a kind and thoughtful individual. As an Indigenous student, Matthew had deep roots in the Vancouver area and was a proud member of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation through his maternal grandmother, Louise Whitefeather. His family has expressed that Matthew was deeply loved, and his loss has created an irreplaceable void. His vibrant personality, curiosity, and dedication to both his studies and cultural heritage were qualities that endeared him to all who knew him.
Elaine Hutchings, Matthew’s mother, said in a statement, “Matthew was deeply loved. His absence leaves a void we can never fill, but his spirit will guide us always.” The Hutchings family’s heartfelt statement also expressed deep gratitude for the support and prayers they received during the search, acknowledging the community’s efforts to bring Matthew home.
Matthew’s death has also brought attention to the growing concern over the rising number of missing Indigenous youth in British Columbia. Advocates are calling for systemic changes to address this issue, including increased resources for mental health and community support. The tragedy of Matthew’s passing has amplified the need for cultural sensitivity, better support systems, and greater protection for Indigenous youth in the region.
Matthew’s family, devastated by the loss of their beloved son and brother, is being supported by crisis counselors and Indigenous community leaders. These professionals are providing vital cultural support to help the family navigate this immense grief and cope with the complex emotions that accompany the loss of a young man so full of potential.
Local Indigenous leaders have rallied around the Hutchings family, offering not only emotional support but also advocating for systemic changes to prevent future tragedies. “This is a call to action for all of us,” said one community leader. “We need to ensure that our Indigenous youth are not just protected but that they have the resources they need to thrive. Matthew’s death highlights the need for systemic change, particularly in addressing mental health issues and providing the support that many Indigenous youth lack.”
The Hutchings family has requested privacy as they begin to mourn their loss and prepare a memorial that will honor Matthew’s life, his heritage, and his unique spirit. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Matthew Hutchings’ death is a tragic reminder of how fragile life can be. Though his life was cut short, Matthew’s memory will endure in the hearts of his family, friends, and the broader Vancouver and Indigenous communities. His legacy as a kind, thoughtful, and dedicated young man will be cherished by all who knew him, and his story will serve as a reminder of the importance of community support, cultural identity, and the need for action to protect Indigenous youth.
The Hutchings family has expressed their heartfelt thanks to all those who supported them during the search and continues to call for increased efforts to prevent future tragedies like this one. Matthew’s spirit, his kindness, and his dedication to his roots will continue to inspire all who remember him.
As the Vancouver Police Department continues their investigation into the final hours of Matthew Hutchings’ life, the community remains united in grief, offering condolences and support to the family as they cope with this unimaginable loss.