A big development in the case of missing Merritt cowboy Ben Tyner.

Mounties now say the disappearance of Tyner is being investigated as suspicious.

When asked by NL News, Sgt. Janelle Shoihet couldn’t say if there are any suspects or comment on the details of evidence, due to the nature of the investigation.

“At the onset, there wasn’t enough to deem that there was any criminality involved in his disappearance but after the days and weeks of our investigation now coming up on the second month, the Major Crimes Unit has deteremined that Ben Tyner did not disappear of his own volition. They do believe there is some criminality with respect to his disappearance.”

Tyner was reported missing on January 28th, when his rider-less horse was found on a logging road northwest of Merritt. The Southeast District RCMP Major Crime Unit has been taking part in the investigation since the early stages.

“There may some follow-up interviews, you may see investigators in and around the area speaking to witnesses. And we would encourage you if you haven’t already spoken to police to please get in contact with us,” Shoihet says.

Those with information relating to Tyner’s disappearance can contact Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262, or the Major Crime Unit tip line at 1-877-987-8477.