Vanderhoof, British Columbia—a picturesque town surrounded by dense forests and rugged terrain. It's a place where life moves at a steady, familiar pace and where everyone seems to know each other. But in May 2011, the close-knit community was shaken by the disappearance of a young woman whose vibrant personality and adventurous spirit were the heart of those who knew her.
Madison Scott, or Maddy as her loved ones called her, was born on April 29, 1991, to Eldon and Dawn Scott. Growing up alongside her siblings Ben and Georgia, Maddy’s life was filled with love, laughter, and a healthy dose of adventure. She was a force of nature, just as comfortable in a dress as she was in her work coveralls. Whether she was tearing through the trails on her dirt bike or gliding gracefully across the ice as a figure skater, Maddy embraced life with boundless energy.
She thrived on spontaneity, often planning impromptu adventures or performing in amateur video productions with her friends. Her vivacious, playful personality was magnetic—she lit up every room she entered. But Maddy wasn’t just about fun. She had a compassionate and generous heart, always willing to lend a hand or bring a smile to someone’s face.
At Nechako Valley Secondary School, Maddy struck a delicate balance between academics and her vibrant social life. While she was more focused on forging friendships and savoring her teenage years, she still met the demands of her studies. After graduating in 2009, she followed in her father’s footsteps, working as an apprentice heavy-duty mechanic in the logging industry—a testament to her determination and grit.
But for all her light and energy, Maddy’s story took a dark and inexplicable turn. It was a weekend that was supposed to be filled with laughter, celebration, and friends. Late May in British Columbia marked the start of camping season, a time when locals would gather at places like Hogsback Lake to soak in the beauty of nature. For Madison Scott, or Maddy as her friends and family called her, the weekend of May 27th, 2011, would be one to remember—but not in the way anyone expected.
Popular Podcasts
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com