The underwater search for a charter boat that sank off the B.C. coast Sunday, leaving six people presumed drowned, has been hampered by “challenging” conditions, according to authorities.
The Richmond RCMP provided an update Thursday, saying the Underwater Recovery Team and West Coast Marine Services are using SONAR to try to locate the sunken vessel.
“Conditions in the water have been challenging, making the search slower and more difficult,” the detachment said, in a statement.
“This is not a quick process. Even if the vessel is found today, it could take additional days to safely investigate, document, and potentially recover it.”
Ten people were aboard when the boat went under water, prompting a massive search and rescue operation during which four people were found and taken ashore.
After the search was stood down, police said the remaining six people were presumed drowned.
An investigation into the cause of the tragic incident is ongoing.
“We know many people are awaiting updates and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as the search continues,” a spokesperson for the Richmond RCMP said, in the statement.
