UPDATE: Body of missing boater found in Chip Lake

EDMONTON- The search for a Leduc man who fell into the water while boating on a lake west of Edmonton ended Wednesday when his body was recovered.

Thursday, Evansburg RCMP said the search for 27-year-old Stephen Thomson ended Wednesday evening around 9 p.m. when his body was recovered from Chip Lake.

RCMP officers say Thomson fell into Chip Lake around 8:00 p.m. Saturday and did not resurface.

RCMP responded to the call and searched the area Saturday night and Sunday, along with the Parkland County Fire Department, Alberta Conservation, Alberta Fish and Wildlife, the Northern Alberta Aquatic Rescue Society, and concerned family, friends, and volunteers.

Officers say storm conditions, heavy rain, poor visibility and water conditions hampered search efforts Monday evening and Tuesday afternoon.  However, the search continued Wednesday morning with boats on the water.

RCMP, along with family and friends, took part in the search.

Officers say Thomson was boating with friends when he fell off the boat and into the water. They add he was not wearing a life jacket at the time. RCMP say alcohol was a factor in the incident.

RCMP say the matter is under investigation.  No charges have been laid at this time.  Further information will be released when it becomes available.