An exhaustive search for a 20-year-old missing Norman Wells man has been suspended by police.

Darren Whiteman was last seen around 11 p.m. at a cabin on Lennie Lake on Sept. 12.

He was reported missing shortly after, prompting a far-reaching multi-day air, land and water search. Mounties - along with Police Dog Services - local search and rescue volunteers and community volunteers conducted the search.

That effort has now been suspended by Norman Wells , stated a news release Thursday.

"... the have elected to suspend lead search efforts. Although the lead search is concluding it is important to note that the missing person file remains an open investigation," stated Cpl. Robert Frizzell in the release.

"It is always a difficult decision to make and no one involved takes that responsibility lightly. We wish to thank all the volunteers and support agencies who put in long hours in sometimes difficult conditions to continue this search. Our sympathy goes out to the family of Mr. Whiteman," added Frizzell.