Nicola Valley, British Columbia — It has been over four years since Ben Tyner's disappearance in the Nicola Valley.
The Wyoming cowboy, who was working as manager of Nicola Ranch, was last seen January 26, 2019, and reported missing on January 28 when his rider-less horse was found in the backcountry of Swakum Mountain.
It's believed the man may have set off to the nearby foothills of the Nicola Valley, searching for cattle. While his absence was not initially thought to be suspicious, major crime detectives were brought in two months later.
Following his disappearance an intense search consisting of RCMP, more than a dozen search and rescue teams, air services, police dogs, drones and volunteers on snowmobiles, horseback and in vehicles and helicopters took place. Searches were eventually called off for poor weather and freezing temperatures, and yielded few clues.
Two years after Tyner rode off, his family is still wondering what happened.
In 2021, on the anniversary of Tyner's disappearance, his parents issued a public plea for information. Their plea came in the form of a video, which was recorded and passed on with help from the FBI.
The Tyners live in the U.S. and could not come to B.C. due to COVID-19 border restrictions.
Sitting in what appeared to be their living room, Jennifer and Richard Tyner spoke to those who may know more.
"The last two years have been filled with horrendous heartache, continued hope and many, many prayers," Richard read.
His parents, sitting next to his brother, Jack, said their son's friends have stayed in touch, and there are constant reminders of him around their farm.
"Ben was not just a cowboy, he was a voracious reader. He loved to experience new places and cultures," his father said.
Tyner's parents described him as a team player and a gentle giant.
"It should get people talking about it again, regardless if it's for good or bad" Swayze said.
Anyone with any information is urged to call their local RCMP, the Southeast District Major Crime Unit Tip Line at 1-877-987-8477 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
