Urgent Search Intensifies for Missing B.C. Father in Skeena River

UPDATE: The search for missing father Thomas Kelly is intensifying as family and community members concentrate their efforts on the Skeena River estuary. Kelly vanished on July 12 while fishing with family, and the estuary is now deemed a high-priority area that has yet to be thoroughly examined.

In a social media announcement, spokesperson Jahaziel Trudell revealed that the family is seeking expertise from locals familiar with the challenging tidal influences and strong currents of the estuary near Port Essington, Raspberry Island, and Haysport. Community members with Search and Rescue experience are being consulted to ensure the safety and feasibility of a final large-scale search operation before winter sets in.

“We are planning one final large-scale search effort before winter,” Trudell stated in a Facebook post, expressing gratitude to the many supporters, including members of Lax-Kw’alaams, Kitselas, and Kitsumkalum. “Every contribution of knowledge and support brings us closer to covering this last high-priority area and, we hope, bringing some closure to his loved ones.”

Authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance along the Skeena River. Trudell urged residents to be on the lookout for potential remains or personal items that might surface after weeks in the water. “Even the recovery of a single shoe, a piece of clothing, or a personal belonging can provide answers and bring Tom closer to home,” Trudell added.

In an earlier reminder, Trudell explained that any remains found may lack soft tissue and could be stained or darkened. Items like clothing or footwear might be partially intact, while personal belongings such as glasses or wedding bands could still be identifiable. A PDF detailing Kelly’s personal effects is available on the Finding Thomas Kelly Facebook page.

Search organizers are encouraging anyone who discovers potential remains or belongings to mark the location precisely—either through GPS coordinates or nearby landmarks—and to contact Terrace RCMP at 250-638-7400 or 911 in urgent situations. They stress that items should not be disturbed, and support team members should be notified for follow-up with authorities.

Kelly’s disappearance prompted official search efforts to be called off just two days later, leading his family and supporters to advocate for more specialized resources. The Hutterian Emergency Aquatic Response Team (HEART), a volunteer group from Manitoba, subsequently joined the search, equipped with specialized underwater technology.

Family members have shared the emotional toll of coordinating search efforts while grieving. “Thank you for your care, compassion, and vigilance,” Trudell concluded, highlighting the community’s support during this challenging time.

As the search enters a critical phase, all eyes are on the Skeena River estuary. Community involvement and awareness remain essential in the hope of uncovering vital clues that will lead to Thomas Kelly’s safe return.