RCMP have now deemed the disappearance of missing cowboy Ben Tyner to be suspicious.

Tyner was reported missing on January 28, when his rider-less horse was discovered on a logging road off Highway 97 near Winnie Flats.

Following his disappearance, RCMP, Search and Rescue, Air Services, Police Dog Services, and Volunteers combed the area, on foot, in vehicles, on snowmobiles, horseback, helicopters and utility vehicles, but Tyner was never found.

''Sometimes at the onset of an investigation there are pieces that don’t quite fit and while there is nothing definite, they warrant further investigation,'' said BC RCMP Media Relations Officer Sgt, Janelle Shoihet.

''Now having had the opportunity to review all the pieces, we believe that the circumstances surrounding Mr. Tyner’s disappearance may involve criminality.''

The investigation remains a priority for the SED MCU and the Merritt RCMP.

Anyone who has information about Mr. Tyner’s disappearance is asked to contact the Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262 or SED MCU Tip Line at 1-877-987-8477