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Similkameen River claims life of local man

The swift moving water of the Similkameen River claimed the life of 23 year old Scott Fechner

The swift moving water of the Similkameen River claimed the life of 23 year old Scott Fechner during the weekend of June 13.

Fechner and friends were camping at PY Point, along the Old Hedley Road. On Friday evening, Fechner left the campsite on foot, headed for home. Although it was not unusual for Fechner to go off on his own, family and friends  became concerned Sunday afternoon when no one had heard from him. On Monday, when he had not gone into work, the police were called in.

A shoe and hat were located on the bank of the Similkameen on Monday morning. The RCMP helicopter and Ground Search and Rescue were then called in to assist with the search.

Cst. Herron of the Princeton RCMP reported that the body was located on a sand bar and recovered by Swiftwater Rescue team members.

The B.C. Coroner’s service is investigating.

RCMP are asking residents to remember that water is high and fast this time of the year and to take extra care when along the shore.