It’s a devastating ending that no one wanted.
After a massive search since he was reported missing on Sept. 22, 15-year-old Richie Stelmack was found deceased Saturday morning, RCMP say.
First responders have been on the lookout for Stelmack since he was reported missing. This included a widespread public search that involved the entire community.
On Sept. 24, about 800 locals set out to find Stelmack by sweeping the Garibaldi Highlands area and beyond.
Technical search teams resumed the operation today.
At 10:40 a.m. on Sept. 25, search teams found Stelmack’s body in the Mashiter area of the Garibaldi highlands.
There is no evidence of foul play. Squamish RCMP will work with the BC Coroners Service on this investigation.
"Squamish Fire, Squamish RCMP, Squamish and Search and Rescue first send thoughts to the family of Richie — our hearts go out to them," said Sgt. Sascha Banks in a news release.
"We also would like to thank all the support and the assistance from the community of Squamish and surrounding area, along with the media who made sure everything was done to find Richie. It has been a very hard and difficult few days and this was not the ending we had hoped for. One thing I know Squamish will do in the coming days and weeks is we will rally around Richie's family, friends, and our community members."
Areas along The Boulevard will be closed today as first responders are still in the zone.
There will be no further update today, police said.
