Large-scale search resumes for Georgian Bluffs man who has been missing since January

James Van Veen in an undated photo. (Source: OPP)

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are once again searching for a missing Georgian Bluffs man after earlier efforts were paused due to hazardous conditions in the Inglis Falls Conservation Area, just south of Owen Sound.

James Van Veen, 64, was reported missing on Jan. 26 after he failed to show up for work.

His vehicle was later found unoccupied in the parking lot at Inglis Falls.

Search operations resumed Wednesday morning and there will be a significant police presence in the area, including members of the OPP Emergency Response Team, canine unit, aviation services and the underwater search and recovery unit.

Specialized resources will also be deployed throughout the trail systems, escarpment terrain and surrounding areas.

Van Vleen is described as 5′10″ and about 175 pounds, with shoulder-length grey and white hair, a full grey beard and brown eyes. He wears prescription glasses and was believed to have been wearing dark overalls and high-cut work boots.

The Inglis Falls Conservation Area parking lot was closed to accommodate a command post. Police asked the public to avoid the area so crews could work safely.

“Anyone who was in the Inglis Falls area between the evening of January 25 and the late morning of January 26 is encouraged to review any dashcam, home surveillance or trail camera footage for potential sightings,” police said in a media release.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Van Vleen is asked to contact the OPP at 1‑888‑310‑1122.