UPDATE Search ends for missing hiker

UPDATE

The hiker missing on Little White Mountain in the Kelowna area since Saturday has been located.

No other details have been released, but Kelowna RCMP are thanking Central Okanagan Search and Rescue for their tireless efforts in finding him.

News release from COSAR Aug. 18

After spending three days lost in the woods below Little White Mountain, a local hiker was located safe and sound.

The young man became separated from his hiking companion on Saturday afternoon before bushwhacking his way around the south slope, finally making his way to the KVR Monday afternoon.

He was treated by search and rescue medics before being transported by ambulance to KGH. He was tired and hungry, but reasonably well hydrated as he had been drinking from streams during his journey.

He was lightly outfitted for what was supped to be a day trips with a sweater and jacket, water and some food.

The 24-year-old was also described as extremely fit.

Team search throughout the night on Saturday until 4am before resuming the search at 5:30 am Sunday. After no sign of him by Sunday night, the call went out and on Monday Central Okanogan Search and Rescue volunteers were joined by search teams from Penticton, Oliver and Osoyoos, the Shuswap, Vernon, and the local Civilian Air SAR team. A police dog team and RCMP helicopter were also involved in the search.

The subject made his way to trestle 8 on the KVR where his cries for help were heard by cyclists.

“All of the search teams were extremely happy he was found safe and sound. That’s what we live for,” said search manager Kevin Birnie.

“He was a strong, smart young man and he did a lot of things right, but he made a few mistakes.
“Even though he was only expecting to be out for a day hike unexpected things happen.

“Always file a trip plan be prepared with sufficient food and water and ability to make a fire.”

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The search continues for a hiker who has been missing on Little White Mountain in the Kelowna area since Saturday.

On Saturday (August 15), just before 6:30 p.m. the Kelowna RCMP was notified that a hiker had become separated from his partner and hadn’t made it to his vehicle.

RCMP, Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) and RCMP Air Services searched well into the night on Saturday and continued their air and ground search throughout Sunday but were unable to locate the missing man, 24-year-old Aaron Rempel.

“Aaron is not believed to be injured. The search efforts on the ground and in the air have resumed this morning,” said Cpl. Jocelyn Noseworthy, media relations officer.

Anyone who believes they have seen Aaron is asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300.