An online fundraising campaign has been started to help family members and friends of Squamish’s Marc Andre Leclerc head to Juneau, Alaska to help search for the climber and his climbing partner George "Ryan" Johnson.
Leclerc and Johnson were expected back from a climb in the Mendenhall Ice Field in Juneau on Wednesday evening, but have not been heard from.
There was a significant snowstorm in the area on Wednesday [March 7] , according to State Troopers.
Both men are experienced climbers.
“Marc’s Mom and sister are on their way up now. Serge, his dad, is still working out how to get there today flying through Seattle,” reads the Search for Marc Andre Leclerc Go Fund Me page.
“I have spoken to Marc’s dads this morning, and he and his family could really use our help. “
Since the men were first reported missing, the weather has continued to be a problem for searchers with limited windows when rescuers have been able to get out
The Juneau search and rescue organization said Monday night that searchers had been able to head out during the day but weather again curtailed rescue efforts.
"Juneau Mountain Rescue was able to fly with the Alaska Army National Guard today. However, the helicopter and crew were only able to briefly search the Mendenhall Towers before weather limited visibility and forced the crew to return to base," reads the Juneau Mountain Rescue message on Facebook posted Monday night.
"The helicopter was then grounded again for the remainder of the day due to foul weather."
The search was scheduled to continue Tuesday, weather permitting.
The Squamish climbing community has rallied to support Leclerc and his family from the moment the news broke that the young climber was missing. The fundraising campaign was shared on several Squamish climbing Facebook pages including by popular climbing retail store Climb On.
“If you know Marc or if you have ever been inspired by his adventures, please consider donating to his family at this tough time,” reads the store’s Facebook post.
Ground Up Climbing Centre’s page shared a news story of the missing men.
“Thinking of these guys and hoping for their safe return right now,” reads the post.
**Please note, The Chief continues to update this story as the situation develops.
[Video of Leclerc from 2015]
