ABOUT US

Linda Rafuse – MUFON Canada National Director – Certified Field Investigator – Regional Asia Director – MUFON ERT

Linda Rafuse, a seasoned Investigator with an insatiable curiosity for the unknown has called southwest Nova Scotia home for 50 plus years. From a young age, having her own experience with two UAPs, Linda’s fascination in ufology and the mysteries of the universe set her on a conventional path of learning.

She has worked in the museum field for 35 years, and has recently retired from her work after managing a year-round county museum along with a seasonal Nova Scotia Museum site

In 2024, Linda became the MUFON Canada National Director.

Moreover, she strongly encourages everyone to consider becoming a MUFON Member and/or a Field Investigator. We have a qualified Team that will assist you. Please, click “BECOME A FIELD INVESTIGATOR AND BECOME A MEMBER” in the link above and will get in contact.

Fernanda Pires is an international UFO researcher, investigator, writer, producer, and communications professional based in Canada. She serves as MUFON’s Director of International Development and Regional Director for MUFON Canada, Central America, and South America. She is also an ERT member who follows abduction cases and a certified Field Investigator.

Her work focuses on responsible, evidence-based investigation, witness-centered research, international collaboration, and public education. She contributes to the development of MUFON’s international presence while supporting investigations, researchers, members, and national chapters across different regions.

As founder of CIFE, a scientific channel dedicated to UFO phenomena and space research, she also created and edits the MUFON Canada website. There, she develops articles, visual materials, promotional videos, and digital content that strengthen public engagement with the organization’s mission. She also created the graphic design materials for the MUFON Symposium 2026, including promotional visuals, event banners, presentation graphics, and digital communications.

Her media work includes serving as co-producer, field translator, and transcriber for James Fox’s documentary Moment of Contact, which examines the 1996 Varginha case in Brazil. She is also the producer of Encounters Latin America: We Are Not Alone, a documentary project exploring UFO cases and research across six Latin American countries, and appears as a researcher and investigator in Esquadrão UFO, a History Channel Brazil series.

She is co-author of Incident in Varginha and contributed as an English proofreader to UFO Attacks in Brazil: The True Story of the Official Brazilian UFO Night. She is also a special adviser, columnist, and reviewer for Revista Fenômeno OVNI, a member of the Brazilian Commission of Ufologists, and a graphic designer and screenwriter.

Through research, writing, media, and international cooperation, Fernanda is committed to promoting rigorous inquiry into unidentified anomalous phenomena and building bridges between science, history, archaeology, astronomy, and the enduring questions surrounding human existence.

Kurtis Blacq – MUFON Canada Assistant National Director, Chief National Case Analyst, Certified Field Investigator

Kurtis became a Certified Field Investigator because the opportunity aligned with several of his personal and professional interests. These include exploring the reality & implications of the UAP phenomena, leveraging his career experience in technology & education, and applying a detail-oriented objective approach to examining data. Most importantly, he is passionate about contributing to a grassroots movement to educate the public and bring greater awareness to the reality of this subject.

In his role as Assistant National Director, Kurtis has worked closely with the MUFON leadership team to create a nation wide case management process that he continues to maintain and refine. He also creates statistical analysis and reporting to determine themes and trends of sightings across not only Canada, but globally leveraging the international MUFON Case Management System that contains well over 120,000 reports and continues to grow. He has directly contributed to the research of the Sky Canada Project, a division of the Office of the Chief Science Advisor (OCSA) within the Government of Canada, that has been studying how UAP reports from the public are documented within the country.

Kurtis feels privileged to be a part of the MUFON Canada team. With a fascination of UAP-related phenomena spanning over two decades, he has immersed himself in the subject through extensive research and by simply letting the data lead his journey. The most influential investigators that have guided his research have been Jacques Vallée, John Mack, and Richard Dolan. “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” – Sir Isaac Newton

Kevin Luengo – Certified Field Investigator

Kevin Luengo is a former military and police officer in France whose interest in the UFO phenomenon began at an early age. On November 5, 1990, at the age of three, he witnessed a triangular-shaped unidentified object while at his mother’s workplace, during the widely reported wave of UFO sightings across France that evening.

This experience remained with him throughout his life and inspired a lasting desire to better understand the mystery surrounding Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena (UAP). His curiosity eventually led him to become a MUFON Field Investigator, where he contributes to the investigation and documentation of reported UFO/UAP cases.

Kevin is also a member of MUFON’s Experiencer Resource Team (ERT), providing support and a respectful listening environment for individuals who report contact, abduction, and other extraordinary experiences.

Drawing on his background in the military and law enforcement, Kevin brings an investigative mindset, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to responsible UFO/UAP research.

Gary DeMone – MUFON Certified Field Investigator

Captain Gary A. DeMone brings an extensive background in aviation, air safety, and accident investigation to his role as a Certified Field Investigator with MUFON Canada. He spent 38 years as an airline pilot, bringing decades of professional aviation experience to his investigative work.

His professional aviation experience includes specialized training through the University of Southern California’s Institute of Safety and Systems Management, where he completed the Aviation Safety Certificate Program with instruction in aircraft accident investigation, aviation accident prevention, human factors in aviation safety, photography for aircraft accident investigation, and the role of the technical witness in aviation litigation.

Gary was also a member of the Swissair Flight 111 Accident Investigation Team, participating as part of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) team in the investigation of the MD-11 accident. His contributions were recognized through an IFALPA Presidential Citation presented to the investigation team in 2000. The citation recognized the team’s contribution to the recovery and reconstruction of the aircraft and its systems, as well as its role in advancing the use of sophisticated computer technology as an investigative tool.

Gary now brings this investigative background to the study of UFO/UAP phenomena as a MUFON Certified Field Investigator. His experience in aviation provides a particularly valuable perspective when evaluating reported aerial phenomena, where understanding aircraft operations, aviation safety, human factors, observational conditions, photographic evidence, and investigative methodology can be essential in distinguishing identifiable events from those that remain unexplained.

His approach to ufology reflects the same principles that have guided his aviation work: careful observation, objective analysis, thorough documentation, and following the evidence wherever it leads. As part of MUFON Canada, Gary contributes his professional experience and investigative skills to MUFON’s mission of scientifically studying UFO/UAP reports and advancing a responsible, evidence-based understanding of the phenomenon.

Murray Toews – Certified Field Investigator

Murray Toews holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with First-Class Honours from the University of Manitoba and an undergraduate of Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy and English from the University of Winnipeg.
He currently serves as a Media Technologist and Engagement Coordinator for the Immersion Room at Emerging Media and Production (EMP), part of the Centre for Learning and Program Excellence (CLPE) at RRC Polytech. Over the past 20+ years, Murray has specialized in developing and creating interactive educational media tools designed for instructional and educational purposes.

In addition to his professional work, Murray is an accomplished independent filmmaker, writer, visual artist, and animation instructor. His ongoing educational pursuits include coursework in astronomy, physics, psychology, and, most recently, the fundamentals of ufology.

Murray is actively involved in community outreach in Winnipeg, where he recently organized an event at Cinematheque titled “Strangeness Index Presents”. This multifaceted program combines a presentation series, panel discussions, and a screening of films addressing contemporary issues surrounding the UAP/UFO phenomenon. As part of this event, his hybrid short film, The Strangeness Index, a blend of documentary and animation, will premiere at Cinematheque in Winnipeg on Monday, February 24, 2025.

Senka Eriksen – Certified Field Investigator

Senka Eriksen grew up on the west coast of British Columbia, where they continue to live today. They hold a PhD from the University of Victoria, with academic specializations in Cultural Anthropology, Indigenous Studies, and Ecology. Their professional work includes independent research as well as freelance academic strategy and tutoring, bringing an interdisciplinary and thoughtful approach to complex questions involving culture, environment, knowledge systems, and human experience.

Senka has maintained a lifelong interest in astronomy, outer space, consciousness, the unknown, and high-strangeness phenomena. As an experiencer, they also bring a personal perspective to their interest in UFO/UAP research, while valuing careful inquiry, respect for witnesses, and open-minded but responsible investigation.

As a MUFON Field Investigator, Senka looks forward to expanding their investigative knowledge, collaborating with fellow researchers, and contributing to the thoughtful examination of UFO/UAP reports and alleged extraterrestrial encounter or contact experiences.

Brent R. Spencer – Certified Field Investigator

Brent Spencer brings extensive experience in crisis management, intelligence gathering, and public safety to his role with MUFON Canada. Over the course of his career, he has worked in corrections, policing support, forensic identification, private investigations, and the military reserve, where he developed a strong foundation in security operations, negotiation, conflict resolution, and investigative techniques.

With more than three decades of professional and operational experience, Brent has served as a Correctional Officer and Institutional Parole Officer with Correctional Service Canada, a Community Peace Officer with the Edmonton Police Service, and the Owner/Chief Investigator of Spencer Investigation Services in Saskatchewan. He has also held leadership and instructional positions, managed operational teams, and testified in court as an expert in investigations and forensic identification. His military background includes serving as a Lieutenant with the North Saskatchewan Regiment and officer training with both the King’s Own Calgary Regiment and the Calgary Service Battalion.

Brent holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a focus on Criminology and an Honours Certificate in Anthropology and Archaeology from the University of Saskatchewan, as well as professional certifications in Forensic Identification Services, private investigation, and computer programming. He has also completed specialized training in criminal identification, fingerprint analysis, firearms, chemical agents, emergency preparedness, and surveillance.

In addition to his professional background, Brent is a former private pilot, trained on and flown a Cessna 172 as well as experimental aircraft. His personal connection to the UFO phenomenon began with a sighting of a flying disc at the age of 13, followed by observations of erratically flying white orbs over Saskatoon in 1992. These experiences sparked a lifelong interest in UFOs and ultimately led him to MUFON, where he now contributes his investigative skills and passion for research.

Brent looks forward to supporting MUFON Canada’s mission of scientific investigation, research, and public education regarding UFOs and UAPs.

Barbara Csinos – Certified Field Investigator

While most young girls in the Summer of 1973 were hanging out with friends and chatting about crushes. Barbara was getting her binoculars and setting up her cot on the deck getting ready to spend the night scanning the sky for UFO’s. After several sightings over the years in 2015 a sighting close to her home changed Barbara’s life, and she decided to become a MUFON Field Investigator.
Barbara is a Veteran and currently working as a Security Guard and Investigations for MUFON.

Len Bryden – Certified Field Investigator

Len has been interested in the UFO/UAP phenomenon since childhood and enjoys spending time in nature, always looking to the skies. He calls Nova Scotia home and has traveled extensively throughout Canada and the US. As a MUFON Field Investigator, he plans to bring his passion for the unknown and desire to help others find answers through MUFON Canada.

Tyler Lorenz – Certified Field Investigator

Tyler Lorenz is a solutions-driven professional with more than 30 years of service within the Government of British Columbia. Throughout his career, he has been a proactive and trusted member of senior management teams, consistently demonstrating integrity, accountability, teamwork, and a strong commitment to public service.

His professional experience includes complex investigations, along with formal academic training in intelligence analysis, leadership, and the Incident Command System, including ICS Level 400. This background has developed a practical, analytical, and well-rounded approach to evaluating information, addressing complex situations, and supporting informed decision-making.

As a MUFON Certified Field Investigator, Tyler brings these skills to the investigation of unexplained phenomena. His experience in investigative work, intelligence analysis, and leadership contributes a valuable perspective to the MUFON Field Investigator team and supports the organization’s commitment to careful, evidence-based research.

Tyler is dedicated to working collaboratively with fellow investigators and to approaching each case with professionalism, objectivity, and respect. He is proud to contribute his experience and service-oriented values to MUFON’s ongoing mission of documenting, examining, and better understanding reports of unidentified anomalous phenomena.

Yannick Picard – Certified Field Investigator

Yannick, known to friends as “Licorne,” brings a practical, multidisciplinary approach to his work as a MUFON Field Investigator. A self-directed learner with training in administration, professional bartending, electromechanics, kickboxing, and energy systems, he is known for his resourcefulness, technical ability, and determination to find solutions.

Born and raised in the Gaspésie region of Québec, Yannick is Indigenous Métis and developed an early fascination with the night sky and the unanswered questions it represents. His interest in the UFO phenomenon began in his early teens and has continued for more than three decades through research, documentaries, publications, and ongoing study.

He currently works in the transportation industry, contributing to the construction of high-speed and electric trains for public transit projects worldwide. His technical background, field experience, and comfort working in challenging environments support his investigative work. Equipped with a pickup truck, ATV, drone, cameras, GPS, and other field tools, Yannick is prepared to document locations, gather relevant information, and assist with thorough on-site investigations.

As a MUFON Field Investigator, Yannick is committed to approaching each case with professionalism, curiosity, respect for witnesses, and an evidence-based mindset. His goal is to contribute his skills to the careful documentation and analysis of reports while supporting MUFON’s broader mission to better understand the unknown.

“We may not yet have all the answers, but through responsible investigation, we can continue seeking the truth.”

Malcolm Pritchard – Certified Field Investigator

Malcolm Pritchard is a MUFON Certified Field Investigator with a professional background in management, information technology, and administration. His experience in troubleshooting, client service, and critical thinking informs a methodical and people-centered approach to investigative work. Originally from Saskatchewan and now based in Quebec’s Gatineau Valley, Malcolm developed an interest in UFO and UAP phenomena during childhood, which grew into a long-standing interest in witness testimony, historical cases, and recurring patterns within the phenomenon.

His professional background has strengthened his ability to listen carefully, organize information, assess complex situations, and approach questions with both attention to detail and an open mind. These qualities support his interest in the responsible examination of reported experiences, while recognizing the importance of treating witnesses with respect and allowing the available evidence to guide the investigation.

An avid backpacker and outdoorsman, Malcolm values time in quiet and remote environments, where observation, reflection, and a connection with the natural world offer a different perspective. His broader interests include consciousness and synchronicity, which he approaches analytically and without preconceived conclusions. As a Field Investigator, he is particularly interested in conducting thoughtful witness interviews, carefully evaluating testimony and supporting information, and reaching conclusions only after a thorough review of the evidence.

Dave Burton – Certified Field Investigator

Dave has had a personal interest in this field for most of his life. In 2008, he had a personal experience of his own that would not only change his perspective on this topic, but intensify his interest. Dave joined MUFON Canada in 2020 and shortly after, he successfully completed the requirements for becoming a Field Investigator, conducting several investigations to date.

After more than 30 years of service, Dave retired from his law enforcement career where he became an expert in digital forensics. The skills he acquired during that time, combined with decades of investigative experience, have been an asset to his investigations with MUFON.

Dave is a seeker of the truth and is guided by evidence and facts. He looks forward to his continuing work with MUFON and supporting this outstanding organization.

Kevin Thomson — Certified Field Investigator

Kevin Thomson is a retired Canadian police officer whose distinguished career involved complex investigations both domestically and internationally. Specializing in the acquisition and analysis of digital evidence, he developed a reputation for precision, integrity, and disciplined methodology. His investigative work was marked by meticulous attention to chain-of-custody protocols, objective reporting, and calm, effective interviewing — qualities that continue to guide his current pursuits.

A lifelong interest in Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) has evolved into a focused, evidence-based search for truth. Kevin joined MUFON Canada as a Certified Field Investigator to contribute his analytical expertise and investigative discipline to the scientific study of UAP. He approaches every case with impartiality and respect: listen carefully, document thoroughly, and follow the evidence wherever it leads.

Guided by the principles of honesty, integrity, and service to others, Kevin’s mission within MUFON Canada is simple yet profound — to uphold professionalism in research, honor the experiences of witnesses, and advance the collective understanding of the UAP phenomenon.

Mark Hauck – Certified Field Investigator

I have had a long interest in the studies of UFOs/UAPs. While studying in university, I took several astronomy courses that literally opened my eyes to the stars and the huge complexities of our universe. From these experiences, it became obvious to me that humanity is not alone in the universe. I have long held the view that there needs to be a serious scientific study of the UAP phenomenon. That is where my interest in MUFON started. Consequently, I have now been a Field Investigator for three years, having worked on over 100 cases. Besides, I am a high school teacher. I hold a BA and BEd degrees from the University of Toronto and an MA from McMaster University.

André Morin – National Director Emeritus – Certified Field Investigator

My name is André Morin. I was born in Montreal, Quebec and have lived here all my life. However, I have traveled in parts of Quebec and Ontario as well as in the United States such as New York City, Vermont, Chicago and Florida. After graduating from high school, I completed two years of CEGEP and also graduated from two correspondence courses in electronics. Therefore I successfully passed the examination to become an amateur radio operator. During 2008 I also successfully passed the MUFON field investigator test on my first attempt.

I was married and my wife died many years later. She died because of complications due to severe diabetes. Mostly I have worked full-time as a mail room clerk. I also have experience in filing in an office, recruiting, canvassing and sales. Moreover I also worked as a messenger. Throughout all these years, I did part-time volunteer work as a tutor. I tutored arithmetic, algebra, geometry, functions, calculus, physics, chemistry, electronics, French and English.

I retired about five years ago. I never saw a UFO, but both my father and my mother saw a UFO. They told me about it. That is the reason why I became interested in UFOs when I first was seven years old. It has been a long and interesting winding road. As the years passed, I continued to watch documentaries on television and read magazines and books concerning UFOs. I joined a small group called the Montreal UFO Study Group. During 1991, I joined another UFO group in Montreal loosely associated with MUFON. During 2008, I became a member of MUFON International. Soon after, I successfully passed the field investigator test and completed a fair number of cases. Later I was promoted to National Director of MUFON Canada. After about five years, I became National Director Emeritus and it’s a great pleasure to keep encouraging people to become members of MUFON and see them all successfully passing the FI examination test. Moreover, I will keep on doing it for myself, MUFON Canada Team, also MUFON worldwide.