Hank Joseph Ethier was 16 when he disappeared on June 24, 1972, during a fishing trip on the Burntwood River near Thompson, Manitoba. Seven friends were boating that day; after supper two boats pushed off from shore. One boat’s motor failed and the disabled craft began drifting toward rapids. The second boat came alongside to assist. Hank jumped from his boat and swam to the rescue vessel, and the plan was for everyone to transfer to safety.

Before the transfer could be completed both boats were caught in the rapids. It is believed Hank drowned in the turbulent water. He was described as 5 feet 9 inches, 174 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. The Thompson RCMP handled the investigation and the official assumption is drowning following the boating mishap. Little else is known about any recovery efforts or further developments.

If anyone was on the Burntwood River that day or has information about the boats, the sequence of events, or searches conducted afterward, please share what is known.