RCMP divers are continuing to search for two Fruitvale teenagers missing and presumed drowned in the Pend d’Oreille River.
“The Underwater Recovery Team has located the vehicle and neither of the missing teens were in the vehicle,” Sgt. Chad Badry confirmed Tuesday afternoon. “The search is continuing.”
Police from the Trail detachment and West Kootenay Traffic were called to the scene of a single vehicle crash on Seven Mile Dam Road near Trail shortly after 4 p.m. on Sunday. (March 17)
A Volkswagen Beetle had driven off the road down a steep embankment, and went into the Pend d’Oreille River, Badry reported the following day.
The female driver from Salmo, age unknown, and a 15-year old female from Warfield managed to escape the submerged vehicle, but the two teenagers from Fruitvale did not.
They are missing and presumed drowned.
Police report the fatalities as a 15-year-old male and an 18-year-old female.
The RCMP Underwater Recovery Team have been at the scene since Monday.
Police ask drivers to avoid the area while the RCMP continue to investigate this tragic crash.
The BC Coroners Service has been advised.
No names have been released publicly.
A fundraiser has been set up at Kootenay Savings Credit Union in Fruitvale to help support the family.
For information email Kt7719@hotmail.com.
newsroom@trailtimes.caLike us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
