Matthew Hutchings Vancouver Death – The sudden and tragic death of Matthew Hutchings, a 20-year-old Indigenous student at the University of British Columbia (UBC), has left the Vancouver community in deep mourning. Matthew, who was reported missing on May 24, 2025, was discovered deceased two days later on May 26, following an intense search effort by Vancouver Police and local volunteers. His disappearance and death have shocked his family, friends, and the broader community, sparking both an outpouring of grief and calls for greater action to protect Indigenous youth.
Matthew Hutchings’ untimely passing has left a void that will be felt for years to come. Known for his vibrant personality and deep ties to both his Vancouver and Indigenous communities, Matthew’s loss is a profound tragedy that highlights the importance of mental health support and systemic change for Indigenous youth in British Columbia.
Matthew’s disappearance was first reported on May 24, when he was last seen boarding a B-Line bus near the University of British Columbia in the early morning hours. By 6 a.m., he was believed to have been near Commercial and Broadway, but after that, there was no word from him. Vancouver Police quickly initiated a search, and local volunteers rallied to help locate Matthew. As the hours passed, the community held onto hope that he would be found safe.
Unfortunately, two days later, on May 26, 2025, the Vancouver Police confirmed that Matthew’s body had been located. While there was no immediate evidence of foul play, the cause of Matthew’s death has yet to be disclosed, and the investigation remains ongoing. His family, still reeling from the loss of their son and brother, has expressed their deep sorrow and thanks for the outpouring of support during the search.
Matthew Hutchings is remembered by those who knew him as a thoughtful, compassionate young man with a bright future ahead. As a student at UBC, Matthew was committed to his studies and was deeply involved in his Indigenous heritage, which was an important part of his identity. His maternal grandmother, Louise Whitefeather, is a member of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, and Matthew was proud of his roots. Those who knew him spoke of his warmth, kindness, and genuine spirit.
Elaine Hutchings, Matthew’s mother, expressed the family’s deep grief and gratitude in a statement: “Matthew was deeply loved. His absence leaves a void we can never fill, but his spirit will guide us always.” She, along with his father Jonathan Hutchings, his younger sister Marissa, and other extended family members, is now left to cope with the loss of a young man who had so much potential and so many people who cared for him.
Matthew’s tragic death has brought attention to the growing number of missing Indigenous youth in British Columbia. Advocates are urging the government to take action to address the systemic issues that contribute to the vulnerability of Indigenous youth, particularly in relation to mental health and community support services.
“We must do more to protect our youth,” said a local Indigenous advocate. “Matthew’s story is heartbreaking, and it’s part of a much larger issue that we need to confront as a society. This is not just about one young man; this is about the lives of many Indigenous youth who are struggling and need help.”
Cultural and crisis counselors are working with the Hutchings family to provide support during this difficult time. The Hutchings family is grateful for the kindness and assistance provided by their community and has asked for privacy as they plan a memorial for Matthew, which will celebrate his life and heritage.
Matthew’s passing has left an indelible mark on those who knew him. As the Vancouver community continues to grieve, they also honor Matthew’s memory by remembering the warmth he brought to the world. His legacy as a kind-hearted and dedicated individual will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his story will continue to inspire others to fight for the well-being of Indigenous youth in British Columbia.