Officials have confirmed that the search for former Rimouski Pioneers coach Éric Avon has concluded with the discovery of a body in Beauséjour Park. This discovery was made around 3:10 PM on Wednesday. However, the formal identification of the deceased has yet to be confirmed by the coroner’s office.
Intensive Search Efforts
The search for Avon intensified on Wednesday morning, involving agents from the Sûreté du Québec from both Montreal and Québec. Dive teams searched the Rimouski River’s depths, while a command post was established at the entrance of the Dynamo in Beauséjour Park. The authorities believed Avon was in that area after a passerby reported seeing him.
Last Seen and Evidence Found
Éric Avon was last reported seen on Monday at approximately 1:10 PM at the Cégep de Rimouski, where he works as a teacher. Surveillance footage captured him in the vicinity shortly before his disappearance. An hour later, he was spotted at Beauséjour Park, and his cell phone was discovered in the same area the following day.
Community Involvement
- Authorities utilized helicopters and search dogs in their efforts, but these searches did not yield immediate results.
- Frédéric Deshaies, spokesperson for the Sûreté du Québec, urged local residents to check their sheds and garages for any signs of Avon.
Éric Avon’s Contributions
Avon, 48, was a well-known figure in the Rimouski community. He not only taught administration at Cégep de Rimouski but also coached the Pioneers football team. He was a candidate in the latest municipal elections, narrowly losing with 47.31% of the votes in the Sainte-Odile district.
Support Resources
In light of these events, psychological support resources have been made available for students and staff at Cégep de Rimouski. The community is mourning the loss of a respected member.
