The Exit 286 sign as seen while heading south on the Coquihalla Highway near Merritt. (Photo via Google Maps)

Police in Merritt are investigating the death of a pedestrian who was likely hit by a vehicle, possibly days before his body was found near Exit 286 of the Coquihalla Highway.

BC RCMP say their investigation to this point has led them to believe that the man – who was found on Friday, Sept. 30 – was likely struck by a southbound vehicle as it approached the highway exit.

“By speaking with friends and family of the deceased male, the collision is believed to have occurred between sunset on August 27 and the report to police on August 30,” the RCMP said, in a statement.

The BC Highway Patrol, which is leading the investigation, is asking people who witnessed a man wearing a grey hoody and black track pants in the area, or those with dash camera footage of the crash to reach out “as this information or footage will be used to further the investigation.”

Those with information are being  asked contact BCHP in Merritt at 250-378-4262 and reference file 2024-3322.