Two missing after accident in Kangirsuk
Active search and rescue operations suspended due to unsafe conditions
Two adults are missing after an accident on June 6 in Kangirsuk while attempting to cross the Marqigiaq River, when thin ice collapsed, the municipality says. (File photo)
Two people are missing in Kangirsuk following an accident on Saturday, the municipality said Tuesday.
The adults attempted to cross the Marqigiaq River to participate in a fishing derby when the ice beneath them broke, the release said.
A search and rescue operation, which included the Kativik Regional Government civil security department and the Nunavik Police Service, began shortly after. Volunteers from other Nunavik communities also helped.
The site is too dangerous for the operation to continue. However, recovery efforts are ongoing, the release said.
The government and police service urged the public to stay away from the area.
On Tuesday, Kuujjuaq Pinguatitsijingiit Inc., the recreation committee in the nearby village, announced on Facebook it will donate all funds raised from its bingo night to assist with search efforts.
The families and the community urgently need help bringing the individuals home. They were not just victims of a tragic accident – they were parents, family members, friends, and people who made a lasting impact through their involvement in the community. While local volunteers continue to search, they are facing dangerous river currents with limited resources and without the professional training or certification needed for such difficult conditions. The Canadian Coast Guard’s refusal to assist has left the burden almost entirely on the community. We hope that media coverage does more than provide updates, it should help raise awareness and encourage the support and resources needed to assist the search efforts. The families deserve every possible chance to find their loved ones and bring them home.
It seems the Canadian Gov’t can help other countries in time of need but cannot help they’re own people in times of tragedy. Sad