Missing 49-year-old Lake Cowichan man located deceased (UPDATED)

A man missing for months has been located deceased, according to Lake Cowichan RCMP.

In a media release, police confirmed the death of 49-year-old man Michael Hounsell.

He was reported missing on October 29th, but has not actually been seen since February of this year. 

At the time of the missing report, police said it was not out of character for him to be without contact with his family for extended periods of time.  He was known for spending much of his time in the wilderness. 

His vehicle was located approximately an hour from Bamfield on a logging road—around the time of the missing report.

The cause of his death is not considered suspicious.

“RCMP offers its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased,” read the media release.

The BC Coroners Service has been notified, and is also investigating the man’s death.

No other details were released.

— original:

Lake Cowichan RCMP are asking for public assistance in locating a missing 49-year-old man, Michael Hounsell. 

According to police, Hounsell was reported missing on October 29th, but has not actually been seen since February 2024. 

Lake Cowichan says that it was not out of character for him to be without contact with his family for extended periods of time. 

He is reportedly known for spending much of his time in the wilderness. 

Police have now located Hounsell’s vehicle, which was located approximately an hour from Bamfield on a logging road.

Hounsell is described as a 49-year-old man, standing 5’7” tall, weighing around 141 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. 

Police say they are concerned for his health and well-being.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Michael Hounsell should call their local police, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).