Case of missing Cape Breton man now considered a homicide

The Cape Breton Regional Police are now treating the disappearance of a 34-year-old man as a homicide. 

Kenneth (Justin) MacDonald was last seen July 7 at 11 p.m. at the Irving Gas Station at 183 Commercial St. in North Sydney, where he was caught on the store's security camera.  

MacDonald's car, a blue Kia Forte, was found 25 km from the gas station. It was parked in the Ormond Crescent area of Mira Road, in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.   

In a news release on Tuesday, police said based on information investigators collected, the case had to change into a homicide investigation. They would not provide further details on what they discovered. 

Police said they have been actively investigating MacDonald's disappearance — following up on leads, completing several searches with K-9 and drone teams, and working with ground search and rescue.

WATCH | Justin MacDonald's family looking for answers: 

Family of missing Cape Breton man desperate for answers

4 months ago

Duration 2:03

Justin MacDonald's car was found, but he hasn't been seen in more than a week. Kyle Moore has the story.

Investigators believe people have critical information about the case and need to come forward.  

Regional police are asking anyone with information on MacDonald's disappearance to contact investigators directly at 902-563-5151.