UPDATE 4:10 p.m. – Kamloops RCMP confirm the body they recovered from the Thompson River this morning was that of missing Vernon doctor, Michael Mthandazo.

Police and firefighters were called to Aviation Way around 8:35 this morning to reports that a body was caught in some logs near the float plane docks.

“Since then, the man’s identity has been verified and his family notified of his death,” RCMP Cpl. Crystal Evelyn said, noting Mthandazo’s death is not considered criminal in nature.

Mthanzado went missing on July 30 after first helping rescue his son from the fast flowing current while here in Kamloops for a recreational soccer tournament. He was swept away by the current and did not resurface.

Evelyn says no further information will be released by police out of respect for the family.

Noha Fossen, the organizer of a GoFundMe to support the family, says Thursday would have been Mthandazo’s eleventh wedding anniversary.

Fossen says Mthandazo grew up in Bostwana before moving to South Africa to pursue a medical degree at the University of Cape Town, where he met his wife, Julia, during his internship.

“It is with mixed emotions that we confirm a body was found in the Thompson River near Kamloops Airport,” Fossen said, in an online update. “Again, we ask for privacy in these difficult times and wish to thank everyone for their support.”

As of 4:15 p.m. Thursday, the GoFundMe had raised a little over $32,000 for the family.

“Since the story broke out, the attention has been quite overwhelming,” Fossen added.

“At first, the goal was to provide some financial relief but then we realized it was an opportunity to put a face to Michael’s name, humanize him, and celebrate the man that he is and the legacy he leaves behind.”