Search for missing Nunavut man called off

A search and rescue team including two divers from Qikiqtarjuaq headed out along the shore of Pangnirtung June 30. The divers were brought in to help recover the body of Eric Joamie, a local man who has been missing since June 19. The search has since been called off. (PHOTO BY DAVID KILABUK)

A recovery mission for a missing Pangnirtung man has been called off.

Nunavut RCMP confirmed the search for Eric Joamie ended July 4.

Searchers had been looking for Joamie’s remains in bodies of water around the community.

Joamie, an interpreter with the hamlet, had been missing since June 19 while out on a hunting trip.

RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Yvonne Niego said the Hamlet of Pangnirtung planned on airing a request to all boaters to stay alert for signs of Joamie’s body, especially in specific search areas.

A community service and vigil for Joamie was scheduled for last Saturday, July 5.

Up to 50 volunteers at a time had been searching for Joamie during the rescue and recovery mission.

Searchers found Joamie’s backpack and an item of clothing, but could not locate his body.

Two divers from Qikiqtarjuaq also helped out in the search, but their efforts to find Joamie also failed.