Search called off for overdue hunter and his dog in the Peace Region

The search for a missing man and his dog in the Peace Region has been suspended according to Prince George Search and Rescue.

The decision was made as the RCMP continues to investigate the file.

PG SAR Spokesperson Dave Merritt confirmed to MyPGNow.com that a dozen of its members were in the area all week to locate James Barnes and his dog Murphy.

The Fort St. John RCMP received the report of a missing person on October 18th, just before 11:00pm.

Mounties say Barnes had gone hunting in the Chetwynd area with his golden retriever, and he was reported missing after failing to return home.

The investigation discovered that his was seen between 11:00 and 11:30 am, with his vehicle and his dog on the Ground Birch Road off the 269 Road.

The vehicle, a 2004 Chev pickup, has been located, but James and Murphy were not present.

James Joseph Edmund Barnes is described as:

• Caucasian Male
• 28-years-old
• 5′ 11″ or 180 cm
• 201 lbs or 91 kg
• Brown hair
• Brown eyes
• Big mustache
• Last seen wearing a green/blue T.C Energy ball cap, green or blue hoodie with jeans.

Anyone with information on where James may be, saw his vehicle or were in the area is asked to contact the Chetwynd RCMP.