Quick Peaks: May 23, 2012

Officials identify remains

BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a deceased male found in Powell Lake on April 14.

After an exhaustive post-mortem investigation, and with assistance from Powell River RCMP detachment, the male was determined to be Francis John Howes of Powell River.

Howes, aged 51 years, was last seen alive on the morning of July 18, 1984, at the Powell Lake Marina where he kept his boat. His boat was later found tied up at his float cabin on Powell Lake. A search was conducted of the area, including the water near the cabin, but without success.

On April 14, 2012, a recreational diver discovered human remains, near the cabin that had been owned by Howes, at a depth of approximately 27.5 metres (90 feet). The RCMP’s Underwater Recovery Team attended the location two days later and recovered the remains, which were transported to Vancouver General Hospital for further forensic examination. Howes’ identity was confirmed by DNA analysis.

A thorough investigation and autopsy have ruled out foul play.

Howes’ family has been notified of his death. On behalf of the family, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

Fees to rise

Powell River Regional District directors are expected to increase the mixed waste tipping fee from $200 to $205 per ton. Directors endorsed the increase at a committee-of-the-whole meeting recently and the associated bylaw is expected to be on the agenda for the May 24 board meeting.