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Tragic end in search for missing 71-year-old Rossland man

Rossland Telegraph
By Rossland Telegraph
December 14th, 2021

“On Dec. 12, 2021, at 2:33 a.m. Trail and Greater District RCMP received a report that a hiker had located a deceased man in a makeshift camp on Red Mountain, in Rossland,” according to RCMP Sgt. Mike Wcentowich.

Rossland Search and Rescue and Trail RCMP officers met with the hiker to gather further information before hiking into the location of the body. A RCMP officer identified the deceased man as 71-year-old Gary Comozzi of Rossland. Trail RCMP do not suspect any foul play at this time.

Trail RCMP notified the BC Coroner’s Service who will take conduct of the investigation.

I would like to thank Rossland SAR and RCMP members who hike a lengthy distance into the location and spent hours in the cold temperatures to recover Gary’s body in a respectful and dignified manner. Gary was a unique individual and local Rossland legend. Those who knew him will miss him. I am confident that the local communities will find a way to commemorate his untamed spirit and contribution to our Kootenay culture, Wicentowich.

Previous Coverage:

Over the weekend of Nov. 11 and 12, Trail and Greater District RCMP continued to investigate into the whereabouts of Gary Comozzi from Rossland. Local Search and Rescue (SAR) conducted a coordinated search of the Red Mountain area in Rossland which saw the deployment of 50+ volunteers and a helicopter to aid in the search. This area is believed to be Comozzi’s last known location; however, hei has not been seen in this area in approximately one to two weeks. There has been some reported sightings of Comozzi and he may have visited Nelson, BC, in the last week or two.

“Trail RCMP believe that Comozzi is likely still in the Rossland area, as that is his place of residence. Comozzi is elderly and lives outdoors all year round,” said Trail RCMP detachment commander Sgt. Mike Wicentowich. “Trail RCMP is asking the public to continue to look for him and call Trail RCMP to provide any sightings or tips of his whereabouts. Comozzi has lived in Rossland for most of his life. He is considered a special citizen in the Rossland community. Community members collectively look out for him and his wellbeing over the past many years. This investigation remains a top priority for Trail RCMP.

“Trail RCMP would like to thank the local SAR organizations and volunteers to undertook a massive search over the weekend for Mr. Comozzi.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Trail and Greater District RCMP at 250-364-2566 to speak to an investigating officer.

Previos coverage:

Trail and Greater District RCMP have received reports from Rossland citizens concerned about the welfare of 71-year-old Rossland man, Gary Camozzi. 

RCMP said Camozzi typically lives outdoors in the Rossland area; however, he frequently visits Rossland.

If anyone has seen Camozzi, or know his whereabouts, they are asked to please contact the Trail and Greater District RCMP at 250-364-2566, so a wellbeing check can be initiated.

Camozzi has not been seen in Rossland for around one week.

Gary Camozzi is described as:

  • Caucasian
  • green eyes
  • brown hair
  • 5’7 (170 cm)
  • 139 lbs (63 kg)

Please call the Trail and Greater District RCMP at 250-364-2566 to provide any information about Mr. Camozzi’s possible current whereabouts.

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