I don't know about everyone else, but this is all new to me! So I'm starting a thread for case newbies!
When did this first hit the news?
Do they talk about the Highway of Tears in Canada a lot?
Do they think any cases in the US have to do with this possible serial killer?
I'm just floored by this case!
I have heard of the hitchhiker disappearances for a long while, since the mid-90s, IIRC. (I'm from Nova Scotia originally, so I was likely a late comer to the case - but I watched a lot of CBC as a kid.) I think the initial big attention was the 1980 "highway murders" investigations, which looked at more than just Highway 16. Then, it was really Nicole Hoar's disappearance in 2002 that launched the mystery into national attention - sadly, because Nicole is often described as one of the first non-Aboriginal victims, perhaps (though she is one of 8 non-Native women on the list of 18). The Pickton case (2002) likely also highlighted the Highway missing. In 2009, when the RCMP seemed hot on the trail of Hoar's remains, the case seemed to get a boost, and does so with each new victim - the latest being Maas in 2010.
AFAIK, quite a few Canadians have heard about the Highway, but awareness and concern is not where it should be, given the seriousness of the issue. Recent inquests and renewal of investigations seem to help, and I get the sense this is about to become something really big - people really can't let this issue slide any more.
I am not sure about American cases, though I would eventually like to start researching possible missing persons from the US who might be involved. AFAIK, the only American connection that has been discussed is the old theory that Ted Bundy (who was known to travel in western Canada) may have victims in this region - I don't think that theory went anywhere, though.
And, as far as this case not being a huge thing in the States, I am not terribly surprised. In general, Canadians tend to know more American news than vice versa, simply because that is the way the media works, IME.
I am thrilled to have this case on WS, and have long hoped we would have a Highway of Tears project here. I am very pleased that so many members are learning more or hearing for this case for the first time. Information really needs to get out there. This situation has gone on way, way too long.