Remains of Albert Chretien found

Al and Rita Chretien (Photo contributed)

by Dave Preston

The remains of a Penticton man missing since March, 2011, have been found in Nevada.

Albert Chretien and his wife Rita became stranded in the northern part of Elko County. Albert left their vehicle and began walking in search of help. He was never heard from again.

Rita spent 48 days in the couple’s vehicle before being rescued. Her ordeal became international headlines.

The Elko County Sherrif’s Office said that late Saturday afternoon (September 29), two local hunters contacted them with information about human remains found.

On Sunday, searchers with the Sheriff’s department met the two hunters. The group search the area for any evidence and then collected the remains and transported them to a funeral home.

Items in the pocket of the deceased’s clothing let to a positive identification of Albert Chretien.

The Chretien’s were travelling from their home in the South Okanagan to a trade show in Las Vegas when they became stranded in the wilderness.