A lot of locals from the small community of Vavenby have joined in the search for long time resident Lavern Boettger, who went for a drive on Sunday, Oct. 6, and has been missing since.
RCMP were informed that Boettger got gas in Clearwater and a local resident saw him heading north from Vavenby on Highway 5. He was driving a black 1997 Ford Ranger, B.C. marker 8769HB.
Wells Gray Search and Rescue has set up a command center at Vavenby Christian Church.
All the searchers meet there in the morning before setting out. They then check in when they return the evening and where they went is marked on a map. The search leader then holds a debriefing for everyone about what took place that day. Next he explains what will happen the following day. A question and suggestion period follows.
The search is continuing through the long weekend. Volunteers have been sent to sit at the opening of side roads off the highway to hand out posters to people going fishing, hunting and camping. This would increase the number of eyes searching.
The church is also being used for prayer and emotional support, friendship, and offers free coffee all day.
A RCMP helicopter is being used and it is a possibility that more search and rescue people from around the province may be called in to help