Missing travellers found
Trout Lake trio located after weekend search
Shane Magee
Northern News Services
Published Thursday, November 13, 2014
SAMBAA K'E/TROUT LAKE
Two adults and a child who left from Trout Lake on a snowmobile trip Nov. 7 were found safe after being overdue by two days.
A search and rescue effort involving the RCMP and civilians was carried out, eventually locating the trio.
"Thankfully everyone was OK," said RCMP Const. Elenore Sturko.
The three left Trout Lake by snowmobile around noon on Nov. 7, heading for Highway 1 over the winter road. When they didn't check in to say they were safe, the community sent a two-person search team. The team followed a snowmobile track to 20 kilometres away from Highway 1 before turning back.
The next day at 11:50 p.m., the RCMP were called and a search effort began, Sturko stated in a news release.
At first light a chartered helicopter began the search, she stated.
As well, a search and rescue team of three experienced trappers set out from Trout Lake toward Highway 1.
The father of one of the missing snowmobilers and two other adults left Hay River to start searching toward Trout Lake.
The three were found at about 5:53 a.m. on Sunday after walking about 14 kilometres to the highway. Their snowmobile had broken down, Sturko said.
The travellers had a rifle, extra gas, a chainsaw and a small amount of food with them.
It serves as a reminder to always let people know travel plans, stated Sturko.
"Being prepared for what is expected helps you enjoy your time on the land," she added. "Being prepared for the unexpected can save your life. Wilderness travellers should always carry appropriate supplies and be prepared for emergencies."
