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Cst. Michael Bernard Potvin

July 13, 2010

Drowning

RCMP Mayo Detachment


On July 13, 2010 Cst. Mike Potvin (age 26) was reported as missing after the police boat he was a passenger in capsized in the Stewart River a short distance from the Mayo boat launch. Cpl. Brent Chapman was also in the boat and was picked up out of the water by community boaters. Search efforts immediately commenced with a helicopter that was in the community as well as local boats. Cst. Potvin was reported as last seen about 20-50 feet from the river bank swimming to shore.

On Friday July 30, 2010, members of the Yukon RCMP located the body of Constable Michael Potvin approximately 50 kilometers downstream. “We are relieved to be able to bring some closure to this sad and tragic event not only for the family and loved ones of Cst. Potvin but for all the searchers, volunteers and the extended RCMP family,” said Chief Superintendent Peter Clark.

Cst. Michael Bernard Potvin graduated from the RCMP training Depot in Regina on May 4, 2009. He was posted to Mayo Detachment in the Yukon at the time of his death. He was married to Alison Potvin who is about to give birth to their first child.

Our condolences go out to Alison Potvin, family, and friends.