A missing man in Elk River is feared drowned after being seen floating unresponsive through Fernie on Saturday evening, according to Elk Valley RCMP.

On June 20, 2026, at approximately 5:29 p.m., Elk Valley Regional RCMP, Fernie Fire Rescue and BC Ambulance responded to the 300 block of Highway 3 in Fernie after receiving a report of a man floating in the Elk River.

The man was described as approximately 50 years old, balding, and wearing a black and gold plaid shirt with blue jeans.

RCMP said the man was last seen at approximately 6:08 p.m. floating past the Stanford Hotel area along Riverside Way. Police and emergency responders along the river attempted to get his attention, but he was unresponsive.

Fernie Search and Rescue was activated and flew a helicopter over the river for several hours in an effort to locate the man. Police, emergency services and volunteers also searched areas adjacent to the Elk River. The search activity was highly visible to people in and around Fernie.

At approximately 8:32 p.m., in consultation with RCMP, the active search along the Elk River was stood down.

Police said they have since been able to identify the man from an earlier event that day and are now investigating the incident as a missing person case. His current whereabouts are unknown, but RCMP said he is suspected to have drowned.

Next of kin have been notified and the family has attended the area. RCMP said the investigation remains ongoing and search efforts are expected to continue in the coming days.

Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Elk Valley Regional RCMP Detachment at 250-425-6233 and reference file 2026-1825.

Elk River Safety Reminder

The Elk River is one of Fernie’s defining natural features, but it can also be cold, fast-moving and hazardous. River conditions can change quickly, especially during high water, after storms, or when debris shifts downstream.

River users should be aware of log jams, sweepers, bridge pillars, cold water, strong current and other hazards that may not be obvious from shore. These risks are especially serious for people floating, paddling, fishing or recreating near moving water.

Anyone using the Elk River should wear a properly fitted personal flotation device, avoid alcohol or impairment on the water, scout the route in advance, stay clear of log jams and strainers, and never enter the river alone or without a plan.

If someone is seen in distress in the river, call 911 immediately. Do not enter dangerous moving water unless trained and equipped to do so.

Source: Elk Valley Regional RCMP Detachment, S/Sgt. Svend Nielsen, Detachment Commander.