RCMP and local search and rescue crews returned to the Kootenay River this past weekend to further search for an Edmonton, Alberta man who disappeared on July 30, while attempting to rescue the family’s dog.

On Friday, August 7, and Saturday, August 8, the public may have noticed an increased presence from both RCMP and search and rescue personnel, after officials returned to the Kootenay River in a coordinated effort to locate the missing man, presumed drowned.

“Despite the added search efforts this past weekend in the Columbia Valley, the Alberta man remains missing at this time,” said Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey, spokesperson for the BC RCMP Southeast District. “It doesn’t mean the search is over, as search officials will continue to monitor the water and reassess as conditions allow.”

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (SAR) was engaged early in this search, which has since received mutual aid from Kimberley SAR, Cranbrook SAR, Golden SAR, Sparwood SAR and Creston SAR.

The massive search efforts to date have included efforts to locate the missing by air, on land and on the waters of the Kootenay River using a variety of methods, including support from the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team (URT).

This past weekend, approximately 20 swift water rescue technicians returned to search the Kootenay River near Canal Flats. The operation was bolstered with four jet boats, two rafts, a search canine, underwater cameras and a helicopter provided by Coldstream Helicopters.

The police investigation remains open and continues at this time. As, RCMP continue to update and support the man’s family, who ask for their privacy during this difficult time.

Lead image: The Kootenay River at Canal Flats. e-KNOW file photo

e-KNOW

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