On November 16, 2013, a young man named Bradden William Joseph Bushie was last seen in Winnipeg, Manitoba. At eighteen years old, Bradden was navigating the challenges of a mental illness that his family believed was similar to schizophrenia. He was last sighted around 6:30 p.m. in the West Broadway area of the city. At the time he went missing, Bradden was described as being 5'11' and weighing 148 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.
His disappearance marked the beginning of a long and painful journey for his family, who have never stopped searching for answers.
The details surrounding Bradden's last known moments are specific. He was wearing a distinctive combination of a black shiny jacket, a black hooded sweatshirt, and a grey hooded sweatshirt. He also had on blue jeans and white and black runners, and was carrying either a backpack or a cross-body bag. Since that evening in November 2013, there have been no confirmed sightings or contact from Bradden, leaving his loved ones in a state of unending uncertainty. The lack of information has been a heavy burden for his family to bear.
In the years following their son's disappearance, Bradden's parents, Verle and Bradley Bushie, have channeled their grief into action to ensure his memory is not forgotten. They have undertaken remarkable journeys to raise awareness, not only for Bradden but for all missing and murdered Indigenous men and boys, an issue they feel does not receive enough attention. These efforts have included long walks and arduous canoe trips covering the 400 kilometers from their home in Poplar River First Nation to Winnipeg. These journeys are a powerful testament to a parent's enduring love and their desperate hope for answers. Despite their tireless advocacy and the passage of time, no trace of Bradden has been found, and his case remains an unsolved and painful mystery.Last Seen: Nov 16, 2013