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First responders salute procession for NPD officer killed in avalanche

Local Journalism Initiative
By Local Journalism Initiative
January 13th, 2023

The first-responder community continues to band together to support their each other as they grieve the loss of Const. Wade Tittemore, killed in an avalanche earlier this week.

First responders from Nelson Police, Nelson Fire and Rescue Services, BC Ambulance, RCMP, BC Sheriffs, Regional District of Central Kootenay Fire Departments as well as members of the public lined the entrance to Nelson on Highway 3A/6 on a rainy Thursday afternoon as the body of Const. Wade Tittemore was transferred back to Nelson.

Const. Tittemore, 43, died Monday after being buried by an avalanche while skiing with colleague Const. Mathieu Nolet on a mountain near Goat Range Provincial Park northwest of Kaslo.

Const. Nolet remains in hospital, listed in critical condition with broken bones and internal injuries.

Thursday afternoon, the body of Tittemore, a 15-year officer — the last four with Nelson Police Department — was transferred back to Nelson from Kelowna.

First responders lined the highway entering Nelson to salute the Const. Tittemore, who leaves behind a wife and two elementary-aged boys.

Nelson Police Association has started a GoFundMe page for officers Const. Wade Tittemore (left) and Const. Mathieu Nolet.

GoFundMe Page started to support families

The Nelson Police Association has started a GoFundMe page — click here for the link — to support the families of the two Nelson Police Department officers.

“We are asking you give whatever you can to reach our goal and reduce financial stress for both of these amazing officers and their families in their time of need,” the GoFundMe post said.

The GoFundMe post has raised $40,470 as of Thursday afternoon. The goal is $100,000.

Const. Wade Tittemore

Wade joined NPD four years ago from Calgary Police Service and quickly demonstrated his skill, empathy and enthusiasm for his job. He was an immediate natural fit and quickly became loved by all NPD staff. His energy and sense of humour will be missed by all of those who knew him. Wade is survived by his two loving sons, wife and by his sister, mother and father. 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.

Const. Mathieu Nolet

Matthieu joined NPD just over a year ago also from Calgary Police Service. Mat came highly recommended and regarded by CPS and like Wade, was a quick natural fit with NPD demonstrating compassion and maturity well beyond his years of experience. Mat is loved by all NPD staff and our wishes for a fast recovery go out to Mat and his family during this time.

“The love of the backcountry and outdoors brought both Mat and Wade together as friends and was also a main reason for them to choose Nelson as their home,” the GoFundMe post said.

"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. The outpouring of support already has been overwhelming and greatly appreciated."

RCMP members from throughout the region, who have been assisting with coverage of Nelson Police calls as local officers grieve, attended the procession Thursday afternoon. 

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