Public assistance sought in search for man missing from Bella Bella

A search is underway for a man who went missing in Bella Bella over the long weekend. Bella Bella RCMP and the Heiltsuk Nation are appealing for public assistance in locating a 63-year-old man from the community. Edward Vickers, also known as Lapa, was reportedly last seen on the evening of Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 walking along Old Town Road in Bella Bella. An RCMP release said Vickers requires essential medication, and loved ones, the community, and police are concerned for his well-being. Edward Vickers is described as: an Indigenous male, 5’7 tall with a slim build. He is believed to be wearing a green jacket, black hoodie, black pants, and a brown toque. The search is being carried out by Bella Coola Search and Rescue, Campbell River Search and Rescue as well as numerous volunteers from the community. The RCMP has reportedly conducted aerial searches using an RCMP helicopter, marine searches with an RCMP vessel, as well as utilizing Police Dog Services. The search is ongoing. The Heiltsuk Nation, HIRMD Guardian Watchmen, Heiltsuk Fire Department, Emergency Health Services, Canadian Coast Guard, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and volunteers from Klemtu, Rivers Inlet and the Nuxalk Nation are all working in support of the search as well as the RCMP. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Edward Vickers is asked to call Bella Bella RCMP at 250-957-2388.