A group of boaters who missed their scheduled return time after a day trip on the Parsnip River have been safely located.
Police and Prince George Search and Rescue personnel launched an official search on Monday afternoon at about 3 p.m.
"Prince George RCMP received a report of four adult boaters that failed to return from a day trip on the Parsnip River, north of Prince George," said RCMP spokesman Cpl. Craig Douglass. "The group were planning to launch an 18 foot aluminum boat at a remote boat launch, yesterday at about noon. The plan was to return the same day."
At first, worried loved ones sent a family member to check things out. The party's truck and trailer were located at the launch site, but no sign of the party could be found. That's when authorities were notified.
But at 7:40 p.m., RCMP received a call from the boaters letting them know they had mechanical problems with the boat and were just getting into cell phone service.
The Prince George RCMP would like to remind those persons planning on participating in activities in remote locations of our area, to please plan accordingly and take extra food, water and supplies. "Always let someone know the details of your plans," Douglass added. "This incident could have turned out far worse."
