Norwegian Trekker Believed Swept Away in Manitoba River
It’s a story that has drawn both sadness and concern, and it comes out of northern Manitoba. Authorities say it is believed that a Norwegian trekker, 29-year-old Steffen Skjottelvik, was swept away while attempting to cross the Hayes River near York Factory. He had set out on a cross-continental wilderness journey, travelling on foot with his two dogs, and was expected to arrive at York Factory by Friday. Unfortunately, he never made it.
According to the RCMP, the last known GPS coordinates from Skjottelvik’s device placed him right on the east shore of the Hayes River, about 4.4 kilometres from his destination. That’s heartbreakingly close, but the conditions there are extremely dangerous. The Hayes River is nearly two kilometres wide, and it carries a very fast current—conditions that were made even more hazardous after recent heavy rainfall. RCMP Sgt. Paul Manaigre explained that the current would have been incredibly strong, making a crossing almost impossible.
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Authorities say a major search effort is already underway. Officers, local searchers, and volunteers have been scouring the area using boats, drones, and even helicopters. But the task has been made even more complicated by the harsh terrain and the presence of wildlife such as wolves and polar bears. Police say they are considering the use of a dive team, but the challenge is enormous, as the river ultimately flows into Hudson Bay. If Skjottelvik was carried downstream, the search area could now stretch out to an extremely vast and unforgiving region.
Despite these challenges, efforts have not stopped. More officers are being sent into the area to expand the shoreline search. The Norwegian Embassy in Ottawa has been informed, and Skjottelvik’s family has been in contact with the RCMP throughout the ordeal.
This journey had been an ambitious one. Skjottelvik had set off from Fort Severn, Ontario, on a multi-day expedition with plans to finish at York Factory. His adventure was meant to be a remarkable trek through Canada’s northern wilderness, but now it has taken a tragic turn.
The search continues, though authorities acknowledge the possibility that he may already have been carried into Hudson Bay. For now, the focus remains on trying to locate him and bring answers to his loved ones who are waiting anxiously back home in Norway.
This unfolding story is a sobering reminder of the raw power of nature and the dangers faced by those who venture deep into Canada’s northern wilderness, even when experienced and prepared.
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