**** RCMP Media Release
RCMP assumes lead investigation of missing fishermen
The RCMP has assumed the lead role in the search for the missing fishermen from the Chief Williams Saulis fishing vessel.
Today, at 5 p.m., the Joint Rescue Co-Ordination Centre ended their search for the six missing fishermen after having recovered one of them late on December 15.
The RCMP has setup a Command Centre at the United Baptist Church in Hillsburn as a base of operations. The RCMP is being supported by the Nova Scotia Emergency Management Office (EMO), Nova Scotia Public Safety and Field Communications, Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and Ground Search and Rescue teams from West Hants, Valley, Annapolis, Digby, Clare and Yarmouth.
The ground search zone now spans a 55 km stretch of shoreline from Delaps Cove to Margarestville, Annapolis County. Searchers continue to look for items from the Chief William Saulis, such as life jackets, survival kits, survival suits, emergency beacons and human remains.
Ground search efforts are being focused during daylight hours due to the hazardous and dangerous conditions that occur at the shoreline in the overnight hours. Ice builds up along the shore with pounding surf and it becomes dangerous for searchers. If something washes up during the overnight hours, searchers will retrieve it when safe to do so. The RCMP is asking members of the public to stay away from the shoreline in this area while the search continues. Should a member of the public encounter any similar items along the shoreline, please contact the Annapolis County RCMP at (902) 665-4481.
The RCMP recognizes the devastating impact this has on the men’s families and the entire community.
Further updates and information will follow as the investigation progresses.
