Monday, September 21, 2009

Search Reduced

Release from JRCC - On the authority of the Search and Rescue Region Commander, the Halifax Joint Rescue Coordination Centre reduced the Search and Rescue operation to locate the missing crewmember of fishing vessel Lady Tiana at sunset this evening as all hope for his survival diminished considerably during the day. Every reasonable effort was expended and all leads were exhausted. It has been turned over to local RCMP as a missing person case. The decision has been discussed with family of the missing man and the local fishing community.

The 39 year old man fell overboard from F/V Lady Tiana, just outside Halifax Harbour at approximately 2:30 a.m. Atlantic Time this morning. JRCC Halifax was alerted at approximately 2:35 a.m. and immediately tasked Canadian Coast Guard Cutter Sambro and a CH 149 Cormorant helicopter from 413 Squadron at 14 Wing Greenwood. Thirteen other vessels from the local area and Canadian Coast Guard Ship, Sir William Alexander, also joined in the search throughout the day.

The Search and Rescue Region Commander, Rear Admiral Paul Maddison and the men and women of the Canadian Forces and the Canadian Coast Guard involved in this SAR operation offer their thoughts and prayers to the family of the missing man on this tragic occurrence.