Community marks 12 years since Tamra Keepness disappeared

A large group of community members joined members of the Regina Police Service and volunteers for the annual Tamra Keepness Barbecue.

The event is held every year on the anniversary of Tamra's disappearance.

It's been 12 years since Tamra disappeared from her Ottawa Street home. She was five years old at the time.

Summer Favel is Tamra's oldest sister. She was 10 years old when Tamra went missing.

"She was brave and she was smart. Really smart," Favel said.

Speaking to reporters at the barbecue, Favel said she was overwhelmed, but encouraged by the large group gathered in the park.

"I feel content because people are still remembering her," she said.

Dean Rae, Regina's acting police chief, was on the force when Tamra went missing. He said he does a lot of reflecting when the anniversary of the disappearance comes around.

"Is there something else that could have been done? Or are there other options that were out there at the time?" he asked himself.

"We're still committed to resolving this, regardless of how long it takes," Rae said.

Erica Beaudin, urban services manager with Regina Treaty/Status Indian Services, has been involved in the search effort since the beginning.

Beaudin said she sees many of the same people, both civilians and police officers, that were part of the search 12 years ago.

"We're still all working together and we're still deeply committed to bringing Tamra home, as well as the many people who are still not home as well."

Summer Favel said it's still hard dealing with her sister's disappearance, but she remains hopeful.

"I know she's not gone and I just pray that she comes home one day."