BREAKING: Slocan search suspended for night; drowning victim's name released
By Kyra Hoggan
The search for three missing young men on Slocan Lake has been suspended due to darkness, as nighttime searches in rough terrain present too many potential dangers for search crews, according to RCMP Sgt. Darryl Little.
But he said they’d be back at first light to continue looking. Search and Rescue crews, as well as RCMP dive teams, will recommence the search at roughly 6 a.m.
“We still consider this a rescue mission, not a recovery,” he added.
He was also able to confirm notification of next of kin, so Lone Sheep Publishing Group (including The Source) is now prepared to release the name of the drowning victim who died last night in hospital: 19-year-old Lily Harmer-Taylor of New Denver.
Previous update:
Police have now released the names of the three young men missing after a canoeing accident yesterday on Slocan Lake as: Hayden Kyle, 21, Skye Donnet, 18, and Jule Wiltshire-Padfield, 15.
RCMP Sgt. Darryl Littel said the young woman who died in hospital last night after the accident will be released by the BC Coroner Service.
“The RCMP, in conjunction with Search & Rescue and the New Denver Fire Department, are continuing with their search efforts to locate the three males missing on Slocan Lake,” he said. “This morning, the RCMP used a helicopter in its efforts to locate the males by searching the lake and shoreline. This, unfortunately, was not successful.”
He said there are currently two Search & Rescue boats on the water, and an RCMP dive team will be conducting an underwater search tomorrow morning.
“Enquires indicate the youths began their canoe trip shortly after 5 p.m.,” Little said. “A male who was walking along a trail near the beach spotted the partially submerged canoe, with one person holding onto each end. The male ran to a nearby home and called police.
“The cause of the incident is still under investigation.”
See previous story.
