DNA tests confirm found dog not missing man's retriever — search for hunter continues

In a sad turn for those hoping for a breakthrough, authorities confirmed on Wednesday the starving and injured golden retriever found in the Fort St. John region does not belong to missing hunter, Jim Barnes, reported CTV.

Barnes, a 28-year-old resident of Fort St. John, was last seen on October 18, embarking on a remote hunting adventure with his dog, Murphy. His truck was later located along a forest service road near Chetwynd — both Barnes and Murphy were missing.

The discovery of a similar-looking dog last fall, around 120 kilometres from where Barnes' truck was found, initially raised hopes of progress in the case. However, DNA testing has shown the dog is not Murphy.

The region is thick forested woodland — foothills, valleys, waterways and ravines — shot through with oil and gas leases, backroads and logging clearcuts.

Cpl. Madonna Saunderson from the North District RCMP issued a statement regarding the ongoing investigation.

"The missing person case for James Barnes remains active," she said.

"If you have any information on the whereabouts of James Barnes and Murphy, or if you saw them and the vehicle back in October, please contact the Chetwynd RCMP."

Barnes is described as a white male, 5'11", weighing 201 pounds, with brown hair, brown eyes, and a noticeable moustache. He was last seen wearing a TC Energy ball cap, along with a green or blue hoodie and jeans.

Murphy is an 18-month-old male golden retriever.

RCMP have conducted searches in the area where the mistaken dog was found, but turned up no new leads.