A search is underway in Nanaimo after a 35-foot sailboat was found abandoned and drifting near Bayshore Drive on Thursday afternoon.
The vessel, named Gypsy Soul, is registered to 34-year-old Amber Nitchman.
It was discovered unoccupied just after 2 p.m. on May 15th, prompting an extensive search effort involving Nanaimo RCMP, Nanaimo Search and Rescue, the Coast Guard, and the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre.
According to Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR), crews were dispatched to investigate the unoccupied boat and found signs that someone had recently been aboard—but no trace of Nitchman.
RCMP have confirmed the search has so far been unsuccessful, and they are appealing to the public for any information regarding Nitchman’s whereabouts.
The case bears chilling similarities to a recent incident just weeks earlier in Finlayson Arm, north of Langford, when another boat was found unmanned and circling in the ocean.
That April 22nd incident involved 43-year-old Ryan Mazar, who remains missing.
West Shore RCMP say he was prawning with his partner Mykaila and their infant when all three were thrown overboard.
Mykaila reportedly swam to shore with their baby on her chest, and the two were rescued and taken to hospital.
A GoFundMe campaign was launched to support the family as the search for Mazar continues.
In the Nanaimo case, police are urging anyone who may have information about Amber Nitchman’s whereabouts to contact Nanaimo RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.
See also: GoFundMe launched for family of missing West Shore man after boating accident
