MERRITT — After seven days, Merritt RCMP and Search and Rescue have suspended the search for the missing manager of the Nicola Ranch.
32-year old Ben Tyner was last seen Saturday afternoon January 26th. He has been the ranch manager since November of last year.
His horse was found Monday with no rider aboard.
A search was launched and as many as 19 teams from across the province, dog tracking teams, air support, drones, riders and community volunteers have searched in vain for the missing man.
Part of the problem, according to RCMP Constable Tracy Dunsmore, was that there was no indication where Tyner was heading when he left home.
Dunsmore says in a news release that crews have searched extensively in the area where the horse was found, and extreme cold and poor weather all contributed to suspending the search.
Volunteers continued to search drainage areas and steep terrain yesterday with no results.
In the release, Constable Dunsmore says although the search is suspended for now, police will continue to investigate and if more information is found, the search can be reinstated.
Volunteer crews may also continue searching specific areas where Tyner might be found.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact the RCMP or Crimestoppers.
