Two Líl̓wat community members, River Leo and Peter Oleski, are currently missing after they left for mushrooming in the Upper Mackenzie Basin on the morning of October 22.
The last time anyone heard from the men was at 2 pm that afternoon.
When the men failed to return home that evening, RCMP and the Pemberton Search and Rescue were notified, and the Líl̓wat community led the search effort that extended through the night.
The vehicle the men have been travelling in, a red Dodge pick-up, was found in the vicinity of the upper paragliding launch.
“Myself, Kúkwpi7 Gélpcal (Cultural Chief Ashley Joseph), council and appointed leadership are grateful for the time that has been invested in searching for River and Peter,” said Kúkwpi7 Skalúlmecw Chief Dean Nelson.
“Your concern, compassion and participation in the search effort are very much appreciated.”
This morning, October 23, Kúkwpi7 Skalúlmecw joined Pemberton Search and Rescue, in the search, which is also being assisted by the RCMP and Stl’atl’imx Tribal Police.
“At this point base camp, at the entrance to the Mackenzie Forest Service Road, is full,” said Kúkwpi7 Skalúlmecw. “I ask that everyone stay home now and let SARS and the Stl’atl’imx Tribal Police continue the search. We will update the community as more information becomes available. It is my deepest hope that River and Peter are safe and that we find them very soon. I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”
