Vancouver police have identified a homeless man in a wheelchair as the person found dead at an East Vancouver elementary school last Thursday.

Michael Ciro Nestoruk, 41, was found at Sir Guy Carleton Elementary School by parents dropping their children off for school at approximately 7:30 a.m. PT.

The cause of his death has not been made public.

Police said Nestoruk was known to them for minor infractions.

"He was a homeless, defenceless victim and this is truly a disturbing and heinous crime," said Vancouver police Const. Lindsey Houghton.

"We're appealing to the public for anyone who may have any information on the movements of Mr. Nestoruk leading up to his death."

Investigators recovered a wheelchair, pants and a running shoe at the scene.

Police have no suspects in the killing — Vancouver's 13th homicide of the year — and are appealing to the public for information.