Kamloops Search and Rescue truck stolen in Merritt during flood emergency last week

Photo: KSAR

Kamloops Search and Rescue needs a new truck after one of the organization’s vehicles stalled in Merritt floodwaters last week before being stolen and recovered within a day.

The truck was stolen on Nov. 15 while KSAR’s swiftwater recovery team was in Merritt helping to rescue about a dozen people from their flooded homes after the Coldwater River breached its banks.

The vehicle’s engine stalled in the floodwaters and the decision was made to leave it due to the ongoing emergency and get help to have it towed to a garage.

“And in that time, the vehicle disappeared,” KSAR manager Alan Hobler said, noting it turned up the next day day in another part of Merritt.

Unfortunately, the vehicle is no longer running and while KSAR awaits word from the ICBC claim centre, the organization posted to social media that it faces the challenge of replacing the truck during a shortage of new vehicles across the city.

“Our ask — any leads on where to get a new truck?” KSAR posted on Facebook.

The search and rescue group is looking for a one-ton diesel powered crew cab truck that is equipped to tow a trailer and is asking people to reach out with leads on where to get one or to make donations.

Anyone wishing to donate to KSAR can do so by clicking here.