Overdue wildlife photographer found safe and sound near Golden
By Contributor
Golden RCMP is reporting that a local wildlife enthusiast was located safe and sound on Sunday, in the Blaeberry Valley area, after spending the night outdoors.
Cpl. Dan Moskaluk said the Golden Field RCMP had activated the Golden and District Search and Rescue team on Saturday night, when the man was reported as overdue.
“At approximately 9:45 pm on Saturday March 19, 2016, the Golden Field RCMP received a report that a Golden area resident had failed to return from a day long wildlife photo excursion at the planned time,” Moskaluk said.
“The man’s wife advised the RCMP that he had planned to set out to the Blaeberry Valley area and possibly Gorman Lake. Golden and District SAR was immediately activated and a search planned for first light on Sunday morning.
“RCMP patrols that night failed to locate the man’s vehicle in the expansive area.”
Moskaluk said Sunday morning an RCMP helicopter along with an second helicopter and a fixed wing aircraft conducted an aerial sweep. The man and his vehicle were spotted by SAR by midmorning and they found him in good health.
“The man’s vehicle had become stuck on Saturday and he spent the night trying to dig himself out,” Moskaluk explained.
“Common sense prevailed when he walked away from his vehicle to walk out then returned to it knowing it was the wise thing to do and be his best chances at being found. ‘
“If your ever stranded but safe, never leave a your vehicle when lost or stuck in a remote area. Searchers will have a much easier time in spotting your vehicle then spotting you walking around. ”
