THE search for a British tourist who went missing in November has resumed after rescuers spotted something late in the backcountry from a helicopter Dec. 19.
North Shore Rescue reignited the search for 22-year-old Thomas Billings after observing something in a gulley, though rescuers would not comment on what they saw.
“We spotted something in a gully system and we need to check it out,” said Tim Jones, North Shore Rescue team leader. “We need to insert our members into the helicopter long line into this area.”
Jones said on Dec. 23 that they were waiting for the weather to clear.
“We’re not sure whether we’re going to get in today or not but the search has been reactivated,” he said, adding that the helicopter time is now being paid for by the government.
Although the search was unsuccessful, NSR is now turning to social media in the hopes of asking for the public’s help in locating Billings. Talon helicopters were sent up on Dec. 26, allowing NSR to take high-resolution photos and videos of the terrain to capture anything that might assist in the search. The public is being asked to view the videos and look for anything out of place, then post in the comments column on YouTube or email NSR at [email protected].
The public can view the first video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUSAm3RSJg0.
Billings was reported missing on Dec. 3 but had not been seen publicly since Nov. 25, when it was believed he had gone for a hike. Vancouver Police received credible tips that he may have ventured into the North Shore mountains and on Dec. 4 called North Shore Rescue with the location information.
According to police, Billings is described as five feet seven inches tall and 160 pounds. He has short, dark hair and blue eyes and was last seen wearing a black jacket and grey military-style pants.
