Update: The Central Kootenay RCMP Detachment has issued a press release indicating that the search for the three missing men who have been reported missing concluded for the day, yesterday afternoon without success. The RCMP dive team dove both in the morning and afternoon. The team concentrated on the Bigelow Bay area working out from the shore toward deeper water. The dive team remained overnight and is continuing with an underwater search on this morning. In addition the RCMP will also conduct another aerial search. As noted in the previous press release this is now considered a recovery operation.
Of note, there have been some rumours surfacing in the community that the helicopter observed three bodies in the water. This is NOT the case. As one might guess this has caused a lot of anguish in the community.
Previous release
The Central Kootenay Regional RCMP detachment reports it is continuing the search for the three youths who were in a canoe that overturned on Slocan Lake, Saturday May 10.
"An RCMP helicopter conducted an aerial search of the lake and shoreline where the youths were last seen," the May 12 press release states, "unfortunately this was unsuccessful."
Two RCMP dive boats were launched at about 9 a.m. and had conducted an underwater search in the lake. The temperature in the search area was a confirmed 34 degrees Fahrenheit… the depth, about 480 feet. The search continued in the afternoon.
"At this point due to the circumstances involved, cold water, distance from shore, the depth of the lake and length of time since they were last seen this has now being considered a recovery mission," informed NCO Sgt. Darryl Little in an email. "An additional news release will be sent at the end of the day's search."
Also attached was a prepared statement from the Mayor of New Denver Ann Bunka:
"New Denver and all the communities along Slocan Lake are reeling with this tragedy. This is a small community and every accident and loss is personal. this is a close knit community that rallies together in times of need and never has this been more apparent. the outpouring of assistance to do whatever is needed is a trademark of this community and in times of loss is a reminder of why we live here.
"We would like to thank the New Denver and Area Fire Department, B.C. Ambulance, RCMP and the Arrow Lakes Search and Rescue in addition to all the volunteers of the community who continue to work on our behalf.
"Counselling has been made available to all.
"The families and friends of the deceased and missing are grieving and need time to deal with this. Please respect their privacy at this time."
Ann Bunka, Mayor