UPDATE: The Mackenzie RCMP continues to search for a local resident who is exhibiting some concerning behaviour, however the search is now transitioning to a missing person investigation…

The Mackenzie RCMP has been actively engaged with several partners, Search and Rescue, RCMP helicopters, ATV patrols, Remote piloted operating system (RPAS), the North District Emergency Response Team, Police Dog Services and have utilized the police boat in an attempt to locate Colin Taylor.

Officers have been working exhaustively following leads and tips in the area of Lost Lake trail since July 13 when it was first reported that he was acting erratically.

39-year-old Colin Taylor is not believed to be equipped for an extended stay in the wilderness and friends and family have serious concerns for his health and well being. Calvin was last seen wearing a baseball cap, white t-shirt and blue jeans.

Police continue to make efforts to locate Colin Taylor but additional resources have stopped search efforts at this time, after exhausting all leads.

The Mackenzie RCMP has worked alongside the District of Mackenzie and continues to keep them apprised of this ongoing investigation. It was in partnership with the Mayor’s office that a decision to temporarily close the trail system was agreed upon.

At this time there is no indication the public is at immediate risk but preventative measures such as Mayor Atkinson’s recommendations need to be taken seriously.

A more fulsome release with further information may be released in the following days.

Should anyone come across Colin Taylor, you are requested to immediately contact the MacKenzie RCMP at 250-997-3288.

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MACKENZIE, BC: The Mackenzie RCMP is asking residents to avoid the trails east of the town and Morfee Lake Road while the search for an armed man continues.

Just after 6:30 p.m. yesterday evening, on July 13, officers from the Mackenzie RCMP were called to Lost Lake Trail for a report that a friend of the complainant, had showed up on the trail, armed with a rifle.

The complainant reported that the man was acting strangely and they were concerned for his well-being. The man, a 39-year-old from Mackenzie was last seen walking into the Lost Lake Trail.

Shortly after the man disappeared into the extensive trail system, several shots were heard.

Given the man was armed, the North District Emergency Response Team (ND ERT) was called to assist in locating and apprehending him and a shelter in place warning was issued to local residents.

Cst. Xavier Del Vecchio of the Mackenzie RCMP states, “The shelter in place has been rescinded this morning, however we are continuing to ask residents to avoid the trails east of the town and Murphy Road, as the search for the man is ongoing.”

Efforts to locate the man are continuing today by Mackenzie RCMP and ND ERT officers, with assistance from RCMP Air Services and RCMP North District Police Dog Services.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Mackenzie RCMP at 250-997-3288.