On June 20, at approximately 5:29 p.m., Elk Valley Regional RCMP Detachment along with Fernie Fire Rescue and BC Ambulance attended to the 300 block of Highway 3 in Fernie for a report of a man floating in the Elk River.

The man was described as 50-years-of-age, balding and wearing a black and gold plaid shirt and blue jeans. The man was last seen floating in the Elk River, unresponsive to hales from the police and other emergency services along the river, at around 6:08 p.m. past the Stanford Hotel along Riverside Way.

Fernie Search and Rescue was activated and flew a helicopter over the river for several hours, with the hope of locating the man. Police and other emergency services along with volunteers combed the areas adjacent to the Elk River. This activity was very noticeable by those in and around the Fernie area.

At approximately 8:32 p.m., in consultation with RCMP, the current search along the Elk River was stood down.

Police have been able to identify the man from an earlier event in the day and are investigating the event as a missing person. His current whereabouts are unknown, but he is suspected to have drowned at this time.

Efforts will continue in the coming days to continue searching.

Next of kin notification was made and the family has attended the area. Our investigation is ongoing. RCMP File 2026-1825 refers.

e-KNOW file photo

Elk Valley Regional RCMP

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