RCMP have suspended the search for missing Thomas Kelly, who went into the river while fishing Saturday evening.
“Over the weekend the Search and Rescue teams did a comprehensive search of the Skeena River by boat and helicopter without locating the missing. At this time, in consultation with SAR, further search efforts have been suspended until new information is obtained, or the environmental conditions change. This investigation remains open and anyone with information is asked to contact the Terrace RCMP Detachment.”
However family and community are continuing to search in a coordinated effort.
A go fund me has been set up by Kelly’s wife to assist in search efforts.
This was posted in several Facebook community groups by Jahaziel Charitye Turell;
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – COMMUNITY SEARCH FOR TOM KELLY
We are organizing a coordinated search this Saturday to continue the effort to locate Tom Kelly, missing since July 12. This is a serious and physically demanding effort, and we are asking for committed, reliable volunteers only.
Location: Skeena River Sections (Usk to Kleanza Creek)
Search Date: Saturday, July 19, 2025
Time: 08:00-16:00
ROLES NEEDED:
• 1–2 people at the Command Post (sign-in, logistics, communications)
• Multiple foot search teams (2–3 people per group)
• Experienced boat operators (own vessel preferred)
• Drone operators with thermal or high-resolution capability
• Debris zone sweepers (comfortable with rugged terrain)
• Mobile float team members (relief and supply transport)
All foot teams will be using the CalTopo app to track GPS coverage and contribute to shared mapping. Brief training will be provided on-site for those unfamiliar with the system.
If you are able to commit, please message me directly by Thursday, July 18 with your name, role preference, and availability.
We need an accurate headcount in order to plan equipment, team assignments, and logistics appropriately. This is not a casual drop-in effort. We need dependable participants who can follow instructions and work safely in challenging terrain.
Thank you for showing up and being part of this ongoing search.