Summary based on the NamUs case record (can2020035043) and
1 other sourceIn the late summer of 2020, a sense of unease settled over the small community of Berry in Quebec. On the evening of August 17th, 78-year-old Jacques Hébert, a local man, told his wife he was heading into the forest near their home on chemin des Chalets to pick some blueberries. This was a familiar activity for Mr. Hébert, who was known to be a seasoned walker and had experience with forest survival. However, as evening turned to night, his failure to return sparked growing concern.
His family contacted the authorities late that night to report him missing, fearing for his health and safety. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a dark blue 'Big Bill' brand work shirt and pants, camouflage-style work boots, and brown prescription glasses. He also had hearing difficulties.
The Sûreté du Québec promptly launched an extensive search operation. The search efforts were comprehensive, involving police officers, numerous volunteers, and specialized equipment. An equestrian team, divers, and handlers with sniffer dogs were all deployed to scour the dense woods and waterways surrounding the area where Mr. Hébert was last seen. A helicopter surveyed the landscape from above, while all-terrain vehicles traversed the rugged paths below. Even with the aid of drones that captured thousands of images for analysis, no trace of the missing man was found. Every cabin and tent in the vicinity was checked in the hope that he may have sought shelter. Despite these exhaustive efforts, the search yielded no clues as to his whereabouts.
As days turned into weeks, and weeks into years, the community's hopes of finding Mr. Hébert began to fade, though his family has not given up hope. His sister, Jacqueline, mentioned in 2020 that they were counting on hunters in the area to potentially come across any sign of him. The formal search has since been suspended, but the Sûreté du Québec has stated that the investigation remains open, and they are prepared to resume search activities should any new information or evidence come to light. The disappearance of Jacques Hébert serves as a somber reminder of how quickly a familiar routine can turn into a lasting mystery, leaving a family and a community with unanswered questions and a profound sense of loss. The case remains an active investigation, a silent testament to a man who walked into the woods for a simple task and never returned.Last Seen: Aug 17, 2020
