Family of missing paramedic headed to Kashechewan, Ont.

The family of a paramedic believed to have drowned in Kashechewan is headed to the community as search and recovery efforts continue.

Chief Gaius Wesley of Kashechewan First Nation provided an update on the search efforts on his social media page late Tuesday evening.

The paramedic went missing Monday when he and another paramedic, along with a nurse, were headed to Fort Albany to get supplies.

After hitting a shallow area with their boat, the paramedic ended up in the water and was pulled into a strong current.

The search and recovery (SAR) operation planned to restart Wednesday morning, Wesley said.

“The SAR operation crew have expanded their search areas further downstream and to the Bay area conducting searches at every shoreline including islands,” he said.

“The concentration area was being searched throughout the afternoon by sticks/hooks including fish finders. This stretches approximately 200-250 feet downstream where the accident occurred.”

The OPP search and recovery team conducted aerial searches were conducted throughout the afternoon and will continue Wednesday, Wesley said.

The OPP dive team is also expected today. In addition to underwater cameras, he said Moose Cree First Nation was to deploy drones, including ones with unique cameras designed for SAR operations.

“We had 20 boats on the water with at least 50 men and women involved in the recovery operation today,” Wesley said.

“Three members of Attawapiskat First Nation arrived this afternoon to assist.”

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The search and recovery operation will go “in full force” for the full three-day (or 72-hour) period since the paramedic went missing.

“We must ensure we don’t burn out our existing resources after we’re in full force recovery operation which the 72-hour period ends July 6, 2023, at 3 p.m.,” Wesley said.

“The family of the individual missing are aware of this update. The mother, brother, and uncle are scheduled to fly into the community tomorrow morning.”