A man is being charged in connection with the death of a young mother in the Edmonton area and the presumed death of their nine-month-old daughter. Ayla Egotik-Learn, a 23-year-old Inuk mother from Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, was discovered deceased in her St. Albert, Alta., apartment by RCMP officers on Friday. The infant daughter, Braylee Beasley, is still missing, with RCMP indicating they believe she has also passed away. Ross Learn, the stepfather of Egotik-Learn, expressed the profound impact the loss has had on the family. He described Egotik-Learn as a lovely young woman whom he deeply cherished. Their close father-daughter relationship was a source of great joy for him, and he mourns her loss immensely.
In a statement to CBC News, Learn conveyed his love for both Ayla and her daughter, expressing sorrow at not being able to meet and bond with the child. Despite the tragic circumstances, he remains hopeful that his granddaughter will be found safe. The ongoing investigation was outlined by the RCMP during a news conference, where they revealed that Egotik-Learn’s remains were found after a routine check at her residence. The officers soon realized that Braylee Beasley was missing, and they have reason to believe she is no longer alive.
Christopher Beasley, aged 33, was taken into custody at a hotel in St. Albert and has been charged with second-degree murder and two counts of indignity to a body. The authorities believe that Egotik-Learn was killed on December 5, 2025. Inspector Wayne Stevenson of the Serious Crimes Branch emphasized the tragic nature of the case and the importance of seeking justice for the victims. Beasley, who is the biological father of the infant, was in a common-law relationship with Egotik-Learn at the time of the incident. He had a history of legal issues related to assaults against Egotik-Learn.
Known for her vibrant personality and strong maternal instincts, Egotik-Learn’s tragic demise has left many in shock. She was described as a caring mother who prioritized her daughter above all else. Friends and family are desperate for closure and justice as they cope with the heartbreaking loss. Beasley is scheduled to appear in court at the Alberta Court of Justice in St. Albert on February 2. The community continues to mourn the loss of Ayla and Braylee, hoping that the truth will come to light and bring some semblance of peace to their loved ones.
