Search efforts for Penticton couple Al and Rita Chretien, who were reported missing, are being scaled back.
Law enforcement from Baker City, Oregon, the last known whereabouts of the Chretiens who were travelling from Penticton to Las Vegas, said on Monday that after 23 days since the couple was last seen search efforts have been scaled back although they will continue, along with RCMP, to follow up on all tips and investigate all leads.
“The Chretien family and friends have been extremely touched and moved by the huge response that the disappearance of Albert and Rita Chretien has generated on both sides of the border. We wish to particularly thank all of the various law enforcement agencies in the United States and particularly in Baker City as well as the RCMP in Canada,” said the couple’s son Raymond Chretien and his wife Jennifer in a statement released on Monday.
All law enforcement agencies are encouraging those travelling to watch for any sign of the Chretiens or their vehicle, a two-tone Chevrolet Astro van.
“Since March 31, friends and family have witnessed an around-the-clock effort to find them. We want to thank all the citizens of Oregon who have been praying, searching and providing tips to the authorities. It has moved us to tears at times with how willing people have been to stop their own lives to help out,” said the couple’s son and daughter-in-law. “We have been blessed to know that the last place Albert and Rita were seen was Baker City — we feel like Al and Rita have been embraced just like they were part of the Baker City family.”
Anyone with information related to the Chretiens or their missing vehicle are asked to contact the toll free U.S./Canada tip line at 1-877-987-8477.