Crews were able to recover a body from the Millstone River just before 3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 8 and quickly identified the remains as those of 48-year-old Nancy Gagne.

Tattoos on the body were key in the identification, according to police.

Gagne was reported missing on Thursday, Feb. 1, triggering an extensive search for her in the Bowen Park area.

Searchers from RCMP, Nanaimo Search and Rescue and other agencies combed the area for days, including the use of a helicopter on Saturday, Feb. 3.

Items belonging to Gagne were found at the park, giving investigators reason to focus their efforts on one area.

The operation was called off Sunday after all areas of the park were explored.

RCMP noted at the time water flow rates and turbidity in the Millstone River made underwater searching too dangerous for dive teams.

The BC Coroners Service is continuing its investigation into the circumstances of Gagne’s death.

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