Murder charge laid after woman found dead in hotel

A suspect has been arrested in a Vernon homicide case that began in a hotel room 18 months ago.

RCMP say 28-year-old Paige Courtney Howse was arrested last week which was followed by her being charged with the second degree murder of Alishia Lemp in Surrey Provincial Court.

Lemp was found dead in a Vernon hotel room in February 2020.

Members of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP’s Serious Crimes Unit arrested Howse in Surrey on Friday. She will remain in custody until her next court appearance on Sept. 28.

“For the past 18 months, our investigative team has worked tirelessly, through several jurisdictions, to bring the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms. Lemp’s death to this point,” said Cpl. David Hoekstra of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP’s Serious Crimes Unit. “We want to extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Ms. Lemp, and our appreciation for their patience during this incredibly difficult time.”

As the matter is now before the courts, RCMP say further updates will be limited.