Kamloops RCMP searching for man swept away by North Thompson River

The Kamloops RCMP, along with the help of local search and rescue volunteers, are continuing to search for a man who was swept away by the North Thompson River on Friday.

Around 3 pm, July 12, police were called to an area of the North Thompson River near the Tournament Capital Ranch for a report of a man who had been caught in the river.

Stan Cappis of Red Deer, Alta, and a friend had been at the river with several youths when two of the youths stepped onto a sandbar in a fast-moving portion of the river.

Cappis and his friend jumped into the water to rescue the youths after they started getting carried downstream.

“Stan’s friend and the youths were able to get to the shore, however, Stan was swept away. He was last seen rounding the bend of the river,” states S/Sgt. Janelle Shoihet.

The RCMP, along with the help of police dog and air services, a forensic identification team, Kamloops Fire and Rescue and several civilians began searching the water and surrounding banks for the 50-year-old.

“Efforts will continue throughout the day today (Saturday) with the RCMP contingent being bolstered by Kamloops Search and Rescue,” S/Sgt. Shoihet added.

Cappis is described as:

• 50 years old
• Caucasian
• Athletic build
• Dark hair
• Last seen wearing shorts and sunglasses.

“We are asking anyone who lives in and around the area of the North Thompson, south of the Tournament Capital Ranch to keep their eyes open for Stan and to report any information to the Kamloops RCMP, citing file 2024-22138,” wrote S/Sgt. Shoihet.

“Everyone is urged to use extreme caution when in and around the water and ensure children and adults are wearing properly fitted personal floatation devices.”