Searchers locate second missing Nunavut hunter

An intensive search for two missing hunters near Qikiqtarjuaq came to a happy ending Feb. 25, when members of a Qikiqtarjuaq search and rescue team were able to locate the second of two hunters who had been on the land since Feb. 14.

“The hunter is reported to be in great spirits and is not expected to require any immediate medical attention. It is expected that the hunter and members from the Qikiqtarjuaq search and rescue will arrive back in the hamlet later today,” said the RCMP in an Feb. 26 news release.

On Feb. 22 two hunters from Qikiqtarjuaq, who had left the community on Feb. 14, were reported overdue to Qikiqtarjuaq RCMP members and local officials.

A search and rescue operation was then launched in the area of Nudlung Fiord, Approximately 150 kilometres north of Qikiqtarjuaq by snowmobile.

On Feb. 23, one of the hunters arrived by foot at a cabin in the search area and was airlifted to Iqaluit the next day.

He is currently receiving medical attention and in stable condition, police said.

The RCMP investigation determined the two hunters left Qikiqtarjuaq Feb. 14, but they then became separated near Nudlung Fiord on Feb. 19 when a snowmobile broke down.

One hunter walked for four days, finally arriving at a hunting camp on Feb. 22.

The remaining hunter was reported to have had additional survival gear and be experienced on the land.