The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a man whose body was found in the Cowichan River on May 24, 2012 as William Shearer, aged 58, a resident of Calgary.

Mr. Shearer was visiting family in the Cowichan Lake area when he went missing late on the evening of April 13 after going out for a walk. His body was found by an angler on May 24, 2012, just south of Spring Pool. Investigation has ruled out any suggestion of foul play in the death.

Mr. Shearer's family has been notified of his death. On behalf of the family, the Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

The Coroners Service expresses its condolences to Mr. Shearer's family and friends, and its thanks for the assistance of the Lake Cowichan RCMP detachment and Cowichan Search and Rescue.

For further information, please contact:

Matt Brown
Regional Coroner, Island Region
BC Coroners Service
250 356-9133