The official search for missing hiker Tyler Wright has ended without success, but the family's search continues.
The 35-year-old Vancouver resident went missing on what was supposed to have been a six-day, solo hike from north of Squamish to Coquitlam on Aug. 10.
Throughout a 12-day search and rescue mission RCMP called "one of B.C.'s largest," evidence was found of his journey. But SAR and Provincial Emergency Program managers along with RCMP decided to suspend the mission yesterday evening after the final day revealed no trace of Wright.
Outstanding tasks will be completed weather permitting and the investigation into this missing person case will remain active, according to an RMCP news release.
Wright's family and friends had been assisting in the search by hiring a helicopter carrying a video camera to sweep over the terrain and asking the public to view the images online and report possible leads.
"The response has been overwhelming," said Wright's father, Phillip Wright. "We want to thank everyone who has donated money, their equipment, and most importantly their time towards searching for our son. More than 27,000 views and over 700 of tips have been come through our online efforts."
Following the RCMP announcement, family members said they intend to continue search efforts and are still investigating their course of action.
A family statement said that with the warm weather, abundant water, and many potential food sources in the area, a person could survive an extended period.
"Ty is a competent outdoorsman, and extremely fit. He is an incredibly resourceful and determined person," said close friend Evian Macmillan. "His determination fuels ours to continue the search."
Wright's family extended their deepest thanks to the RCMP and SAR for their efforts to date.
"Every person involved in this search has devoted an enormous amount of their own time for a person that they have never me," said Wright's mother, Evelyn Wright. "Their dedication in looking for Tyler has been inspiring."
As of Saturday (Aug. 28), 111 areas were searched in 200 square kilometres of "heinous" terrain involving 26 different routes and 213 assignments with well over 5,000 searcher hours on the ground, and as-yet untallied hours in the air.
On Friday (Aug. 28), fundraiser organizers at Maple Ridge's Haney Public House collected $5,000 to help the family with the search.
For more information on how to help, go to www.findtyler.com.
