Wednesday, April 21, 2004

MECHANICAL PROBLEMS SUSPENDS SEARCH FOR DROWNING VICTIM

Ranger Lake, Ont.,

A mechanical problem with the specialized rescue boat being used in the search for 47 year old John Robert FARRELL has temporarily suspended the search for the Sault Ste Marie resident.

Late yesterday afternoon a mechanical problem stranded the two fire fighters and two OPP divers in the middle of the ice clogged Ranger Lake. The break down caused the vessel steering system to become inoperable. A temporary repair by the boat operators enabled them to return safely return to shore. At that time an inspection of the vessel by fire fighters determined that a more extensive repair was needed and the vessel was pulled from the water.

The necessary parts are being obtained early this morning and if the vessel is repaired in time, the search for the missing Sault Ste Marie man will continue later today.

Recovery officials are hoping that the overnight rain and warmer temperatures may disintegrate the ice in Ranger Lake to a point where regular boats can be used to access the search area. Sault Ste Marie OPP have two boats standing by in case the lake opens up today or tomorrow.

The decision if the underwater search will go ahead today will be made late this morning. Members of the media will be advised as soon as the decision is made.


Illegal Sale of Product Advertised
As Maple Syrup

(Blind River, Ont.) Police are investigating the illegal sale of a product purported to be Maple Syrup when it is not.
East Algoma O.P.P. received a complaint of this scam yesterday and as a result seized 57 4-litre jugs and 37 2-litre jugs of the product from a Quebec resident that was selling the product.
There is a violation under the Food Processing Act.
Police are asking anyone who may have purchased any of these items to call East Algoma O.P.P. at 1-888-310-1122 and leave their name and contact phone number for Cst. Geoff Burk.