POLICE: Efforts continue in the search for Owen Rooney
The Grand Forks RCMP are continuing their efforts in locating 24-year-old Owen Kiernan Rooney. Rooney, originally from Australia, was last seen at the Grand Forks Hospital on Aug. 14. He was last seen at approximately 8:00 p.m. that evening sitting outside on a picnic table on the west side of the Boundary Hospital. Update:
“Since Owen was reported missing back in mid-August, the Grand Forks RCMP have spoken to several individuals who have assisted in confirming a time line of Owen Rooney’s activities and whereabouts up to the sequence point of his being at the Grand Forks Hospital on Aug. 14. We do know that Owen Rooney left the hospital, leaving behind a backpack which contained clothing and his cell phone. Rooney’s wallet and ID papers were not amongst the items left behind and have not been located or turned in as found,” stated Cpl Dan Moskaluk. A second search was conducted by the Grand Forks RCMP and Grand Forks Search and Rescue Team members on Saturday, Sept. 25 in the Grand Forks area, which yielded negative results for any sign of Owen or any personal items belonging to him. Owen was living in Kelowna at the time of his disappearance and was gainfully employed in Kelowna. Checks with his employer also confirmed last known contact times and dates precede the date he was last seen on. RCMP inquiries have included all businesses and community agencies throughout the Kootenay and Southern B.C. area along Highway 3 and Highway 33 and into Kelowna. The RCMP has sought the assistance of external national and international agencies which include such agencies as Child Find Canada and Interpol. These external agencies will assist the RCMP in disseminating information Canada wide and abroad. “Owen’s family are still here in BC, and have been actively assisting investigators. The Owen family would like to extend their appreciation for all the support shown by all of the communities in the areas canvassed,” added Cpl Dan Moskaluk.
Owen Rooney is described as 5’9″ and 160 lbs, very short brown hair, with bruising on his face. He was last seen wearing a dark T-shirt and 3/4 shorts. RCMP ask the general public to take note of the posters of Owen Rooney that have been distributed and posted in various communities and are requesting that anyone who may have seen Owen Rooney to contact the Grand Forks Office at 250-442-8288, their local police services or via Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.