A fundraiser has been launched for the two victims caught in a fatal avalanche near Kaslo earlier this week.
Cst. Wade Tittemore, 43, was killed in the incident and Cst. Mathieu (Mat) Nolet, 28, remains in critical condition at the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital.
Both officers were members of the Nelson police detachment.
The Nelson Police Association (NPA) has set up the GoFundMe to support Tittemore’s family and to support Nolet’s recovery.
Tittemore joined the Nelson police detachment four years ago after serving with the Calgary Police Service.
He is survived by two sons, his wife, a sister and his mother and father.
“His energy and sense of humour will be missed by all of those who knew him,” says the NPA.
“Our condolences and deepest sympathies go out to Wade’s family during this tragic time of loss. Wade’s absence is felt by so many he met in the community.”
Tittemore and Nolet both loved the backcountry and outdoors. The NPA says this is what brought the two together as friends and was a major reason they both chose Nelson as their home.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the fundraiser has gathered more than $15,500 and messages of support and condolence from people across the province.
The fundraiser is not only seeing donations from civilians but also a generous $1,000 donation from the Surrey Police Union.
“Our thanks to RCMP, Kaslo SAR, fellow backcountry enthusiasts, doctors, nurses, first responders, air support, the public and brothers and sisters throughout the province and country for their support in the rescue, recovery and treatment efforts provided during this time,” says the fundraiser.
“The outpouring of support already has been overwhelming and greatly appreciated.”
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