Local pilot helps RCMP locate stranded driver near Fox Valley

LEADER - A local pilot played a key role in helping RCMP locate a stranded driver in a remote area near Fox Valley after a vehicle became stuck and partially submerged in snow and water.

Saskatchewan RCMP received a 911 call on a cold evening in March from a man reporting his vehicle was stuck. The call dropped before officers could determine his exact location, leaving responders to search a vast area with limited information.

Leader RCMP officers responded immediately, deploying a remotely piloted aircraft system to search from the air, while detachment members, police dog services and a conservation officer with the provincial protective services branch conducted a ground search through the night.

With temperatures dropping to a windchill of –29 C by morning and fresh snow falling, RCMP sought additional resources. Sgt. Don Kyllo, detachment commander, contacted a local pilot he had previously met, who had offered to assist in search efforts if needed.

The pilot agreed and took to the air, quickly locating the stranded vehicle and relaying its coordinates to officers on the ground. He remained overhead, circling the area until officers reached the scene.

Police found the man near his vehicle and brought him back to the detachment to warm up. No injuries were reported.

Kyllo said the pilot’s willingness to help made a critical difference in the outcome.

“Situations like this remind us how important it is to have a positive connection with the people we serve and the communities we police,” he said.

The pilot said strong relationships with local RCMP are key to community safety and that he was ready to assist when called upon.

Saskatchewan RCMP thanked all those involved in the search, noting the effort highlights the importance of cooperation in emergency situations.