Waterloo Region police find body they believe is missing man connected to death of 8-year-old boy

Waterloo Region police say a body found today (May 20) on a rural property in Milton is believed to be that of Curtis Hesselink.

The discovery, in a bush area near the property, was made by Halton Region police.

Police had been searching for the 41-year-old Cambridge resident since May 14 when officers found the body of an eight-year-old boy at 10 a.m. at 4790 Townline Rd. Police said they wanted to speak to Hesselink, "who may have information that could assist investigators," and had concerns for his wellbeing.

Police confirmed Hasselink is the deceased boy's father.

Police said his death is not considered suspicious but are waiting for results of a post-mortem.

The search for Hesselink had been focused around the area of Townline Road and River Road, including a property in the area.

Police said initial information indicated they were concerned Hesselink had firearms; however, further information and investigation resulted in no threat to public safety.

A post-mortem has been conducted on the boy and cause of death has not yet been determined. Toxicology tests were ordered but results have yet to come in.

On May 19, a gofundme was started by Guelph's Karen Hyckenberg to support Kathryn Hesselink, identified in the campaign as the mother of the boy. As of late Friday evening, the page has almost reached half of a $10,000 goal.

The investigation is still considered active and anyone with information can contact the Waterloo Regional Police Service at 519-570-9777 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Anonymous tips can also be submitted at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.

Community supports are available through Victim Services of Waterloo Region by visiting www.vswr.ca or by calling 519-585-2363 or 519-570-5143. Support is also available through Here 24/7 by visiting www.here247.ca or by calling 1-844-437-3247.