NANAIMO, B.C. - A 75-year-old fisher who went missing in the Nanaimo Lakes area was found alive late Tuesday night, standing in the water beside his capsized boat after an extensive search by police, search and rescue volunteers and civilian volunteers, Nanaimo RCMP say.
The search began just before 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, when Nanaimo RCMP received a report that the man had not returned home after leaving to fish earlier that morning. Concern grew when family and friends could not find him despite searching the area where he was believed to be fishing themselves.
Officers who attended Nanaimo Lakes located the man’s vehicle and his empty boat trailer. Given his age, his medical condition and how long he had been overdue, police said the investigation was immediately treated as high-risk, and Nanaimo Search and Rescue (NSAR) was activated. About 25 NSAR volunteers deployed with boats and specialized search resources, alongside RCMP officers, RCMP Police Dog Services and civilian volunteers.
At about 10:15 p.m., NSAR members located the man standing in the water near his capsized boat, in medical distress. NSAR medics provided immediate care before transferring him to BC Emergency Health Services personnel, who took him to hospital. Police did not release the man’s name, and no update on his condition was provided.
“This incident highlights the importance of a rapid, coordinated response when someone goes missing in a remote area,” said Carly Trobridge, president of Nanaimo Search and Rescue. “We’re grateful this search had a positive outcome and are proud of the dedication shown by the many volunteers who gave their evening to help bring someone home safely.”
“The successful outcome of this search is a testament to the professionalism and commitment of Nanaimo Search and Rescue’s volunteer members,” said Inspector Donovan Tait, operations officer for the Nanaimo RCMP, adding that their ability to mobilize quickly and work alongside officers and partner agencies was critical to locating the man and getting him medical care.
The Nanaimo RCMP thanked Nanaimo Search and Rescue, BC Emergency Health Services and the family members who assisted in the search effort (file 2026-31597).
Source: Nanaimo RCMP media advisory, File # 2026-31597
