TSIIGEHTCHIC/ARCTIC RED RIVER
A search for two people missing on the Mackenzie River near Tsiigehtchic has been scaled back and is now considered a recovery effort.

The search for the two individuals began on Sept. 23 after Fort McPherson RCMP received a report that a capsized canoe had been located about five kilometres south of Tsiigehtchic, according to an RCMP news release.

Police added fishing gear and other supplies located with the canoe have led them to believe that the two people may have fallen into the river.

The Mounties have been working in partnership with the communities of Tsiigehthic and Fort McPherson as well as the civil search and rescue association and environment and natural resources to conduct searches along the Mackenzie River, police further stated in the news release.

Boats and aircraft have both been used in the search. The search radius has been about 130 kilometres from the point where the canoe was located.

A fishing camp, linked to the missing people, has also been searched.

RCMP stated that no evidence of foul play has been found either at the camp or along the river.

Police also stated that although they believe the two missing people have succumbed to the elements, the investigation into their disappearance will remain open.

"Although searchers remain hopeful, there is the unfortunate possibility that the remains of the missing people may not be recovered," stated RCMP Const.. Elenore Sturko in the news release.

RCMP stated they will not release the missing people's names but Marjorie Dobson, senior administrative officer for Tsiigehtchic, said that one of the missing people has been identified as Danny Andre who is from the community.

She added that she believes the other missing person is not from Tsiigehtchic.

A spokesperson from the Andre family said they had no comment and asked for privacy during this difficult time.

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