Search for missing N.W.T. hunter near Fort McPherson scaled back

The search is being scaled back for a hunter who went missing Monday near Fort McPherson, N.W.T.

RCMP cite harsh weather conditions, and potential risk to searchers in the area, for the scaling back of the search. They say community volunteers may continue to search on their own, and RCMP will assist where possible.

Lanny Stewart, 37, was last seen at around 9:30 a.m. Monday, heading out on an ATV from the James Creek camp near the N.W.T./Yukon border, in the direction of the valley behind the camp. He said he would return by supper time and when he did not, a search was begun.

RCMP andvolunteers from Fort McPherson, the James Creek Camp, the Civil Aviation Search and Rescue Association (CASARA) and local helicopter companies were helping with the search.

RCMP say searchers located an ATV matching the description of the vehicle Stewart was seen leaving on. Searchers scoured the surrounding area butdid not find him.

The search was hampered by weather, and blowing snow made it difficult to find tracks or signs of Stewart.