Police have discontinued the search for the possible missing person reported yesterday in the area of the West break wall (pier) in Port Stanley. Since the initial report to police that someone was seen out on the pier and had disappeared from view, no new information has been discovered.
An extensive search was conducted last evening and continued this morning by both water and land. Officers have canvassed the area and checked licence plates to look for abandoned vehicles but have had negative results.
“At this point we have discontinued the search in light of having no new information indicating that someone entered the water. Since the initial report we have not received any new information or any reports of missing or an overdue person. We have not received any leads to indicate someone had gone into the water or were outstanding. Our officers conducted another extensive search this morning utilizing the Elgin OPP Marine Unit and members for our Emergency Response Team. They did not come across anything to indicate a person had gone into the water.†Stated Staff Sergeant Greg DAFOE, Elgin County OPP Operations Manager.
Original Media Release Dated May 26, 2014 – Elgin County Ontario Provincial Police are currently engaged in a search for a possible missing person in the area of the west break wall (pier) in Port Stanley, ON.
At approximately 6:23pm on May 26, 2014 a witness on the main pier in Port Stanley observed a person bypass the security gate on the west break wall (pier) and walk out onto the pier. The witness could not determine whether the person was male or female but described the subject as being about 5â€6†about 110lbs wearing a white t-shirt and jean shorts. The witness became alarmed when he could no longer see the subject; however the witness did not see the subject enter the water. The witness attended the area of the west pier and did not see anyone. He then contacted police.
Elgin OPP and members of the OPP Emergency Response Team along with Central Elgin Fire, Auxiliary Coast Guard Boat and a helicopter dispatched by the Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Trenton, ON conducted an extensive search until approximately 11pm with negative results.
Police are continuing to investigate the incident and will continue to search the area during daylight hours.
Police are looking to speak to anyone who may have been in the area around 6:20pm and observed someone out on the west pier, returning off of the pier, or exiting the water in that area. Witnesses can call the Elgin OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or 519-631-2920.