Body of missing kayaker found in Cheakamus River
Man overturned his kayak in challenging conditions on
Sunday evening
By: Brandon Barrett
June 25, 2020
The body of a kayaker that went missing in difficult
conditions this week has been found in the Cheakamus River, police have
confirmed. In a release, Whistler RCMP said the man was located at
approximately 3:45 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24 several kilometres where he was
last seen on Sunday evening. Police said the man’s recovery was “extremely
challenging” due to his location and the condition of the river at the time.
“Whistler RCMP are very appreciative of all of the friends and kayaking
community, RCMP Air Services, Whistler SAR, Whistler Fire Service and off
duties members of the SAR communities who assisted in the safe recovery of this
individual.”
It was first reported the man had overturned in his kayak
at about 6:15 p,m. on June 21 in the area of House Rock, close to MacLaurin’s
Crossing suspension bridge, while out with friends. Whistler RCMP, Whistler
Search and Rescue, the Whistler Fire Rescue Service’s swift-water team and
friends of the kayaker all assisted in the search. Police also used an RCMP
helicopter in the efforts.
At the time the man went missing, Mounties said the river
was running “very high and fast,” which made searching efforts difficult and
“extremely dangerous” for those involved. The RCMP said it would not be
releasing any further information on the man at this time.
From Jerry Jascombe: This is a fast-moving Class 4 run. Very continuous. Happened at Triple-Drop, a 150 yard long rapid that you can watch from a cable bridge. It’s exceptionally beautiful.
