Coast guard ends search for missing Vincent Massey crew member

The Canadian Coast Guard says it has ended itssearch for a missing crew member who was aboard theCCGS Vincent Massey.

In a statement, Department of Fisheries and Oceans spokesperson milie Proteau-Beaulieu saidthe crew member was reported missing at 8:15 a.m. on Mondaywhen the vessel arrived in St. John's.

The statement said the employee was last seen aboard the ship Sunday eveningas the vessel sailed along Newfoundland's northeast coast.

After an unsuccessful search of the vessel, a "multi-asset sea search commenced," according to the statement.

A post on the coast guard's social media accounts Wednesday afternoon said, "We are devastated to confirm that one of our own employees has been lost at sea."

Canadian Coast Guard vessels, aircraft and vessels from other federal sourcesassisted in the search.

Proteau-Beaulieusaid the decision to end the search was made Tuesday afternoon.

"Such decisions are never taken lightly," said Porteau-Beaulieu in the statement.

"Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of our employee, and we extend our sincere condolences to them and to all our employees affected by this tragedy."

The matter is now with the RCMP.

In a statement Wednesday afternoon, Cpl.Jolene Garland said theRCMPiscontinuing the investigation.

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