Search paused for missing swimmer at Stamp Falls after days of difficult rescue efforts

Police reported that a young woman went missing when she was seen being swept up in a strong current and taken over the falls. (Alberni Valley Rescue Squad)

The search for a young woman swept over Stamp Falls has been paused after several days of intensive efforts by search and rescue crews and emergency responders.

Dave Poulsen, senior search manager and president of the Alberni Valley Rescue Squad, said the response involved significant resources and a major commitment from volunteers who worked through challenging conditions.

Teams from Alberni Valley Rescue Squad and Arrowsmith Search and Rescue were involved every day since Sunday, supported by swiftwater rescue teams, rope rescue teams, drone operators, helicopters, the RCMP Dive Team and several emergency service agencies.

Poulsen said the Stamp Falls area is one of the most challenging environments for responders because of the terrain and the river system.

“It’s a difficult area,” he said. “Access isn’t easy. It’s a set of waterfalls that goes into a big pool that tails out through a canyon, and then the rest of the river is a significant river system.”

Poulsen says crews worked together and shared resources throughout the response.

“Search and rescue (teams) are a tool that the RCMP and other emergency services use,” Poulsen said, explaining that the RCMP makes the decision on when operations begin and when they are suspended.

The thoughts of the rescue teams remain with the woman’s family and loved ones.

“We’ve worked very, very hard to bring some resolution to them,” he said. “We definitely feel and empathize with you guys, and we will continue to be there to support them in whatever capacity we can.”

Poulsen says the impact of calls like this goes beyond the search itself, especially for the volunteers who respond.

“These people have normal lives, normal jobs, drop everything in the blink of an eye to come out and try and create the best, most positive resolution to whatever the situation is,” he said.

He said search and rescue volunteers are often exposed to situations most people never experience.

“Some of the things we see and some of the tasks we’re asked to perform aren’t things that normal people do in everyday life,” Poulsen said.

“They can carry a significant weight on them.”

Support has been activated for responders through the provincial search and rescue system, including peer support, group debriefing, and follow-up services.

He also shared a message for anyone heading out to enjoy B.C.’s waterways.

“We live in this beautiful province, gorgeous waterways, awesome outdoor areas and activities,” he said.

“Be safe and do a little bit of research before you go.”