The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a man who was discovered deceased in Kootenay Lake near Nelson on Sept. 11, 2014.  

The man was Paul Tayes, aged 56, from Surrey.  

Mr. Tayes had checked into the Kokanee Creek campground on Sept. 2, 2014, for one night and was reported missing by park staff on Sept. 4, 2014, after he failed to return to his truck and equipment. Search and Rescue workers initiated an extensive search of the area on the same day but were unable to locate him.

The body of Mr. Tayes was subsequently discovered in Kootenay Lake by a local kayaker on Sept. 11, 2014, and recovered from the lake by Search and Rescue personnel.

The BC Coroners Service and RCMP continue to investigate this death.

The family of Mr. Tayes have been notified of his death. On behalf of family members, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

For further information, please contact:

Larry Marzinzik
Regional Coroner, Interior Region
BC Coroners Service
250 861-7429