Two missing, presumed drowned in separate B.C. Interior lake incidents

Authorities in British Columbia's Interior are investigating two separate incidents where individuals are missing and presumed drowned following weekend water activities. The first incident occurred on Mara Lake, south of Sicamous, on Friday evening. A group of friends on a boat reported one member unaccounted for, prompting an immediate search by Sicamous RCMP and Search and Rescue. The RCMP Underwater Recovery Team and National Underwater Recovery Training Centre were deployed, conducting sonar searches throughout the weekend and into Tuesday, but the missing man had not been located.

In a separate event on Okanagan Lake on July 11, a 45-year-old man was being towed on an inflatable tube when he was thrown into the water without a personal flotation device. The boat operator attempted a rescue but was unsuccessful and required assistance from another boater. West Kelowna RCMP, Kelowna Fire Rescue, Central Okanagan Search and Rescue, and BC Emergency Health Services responded. The RCMP Underwater Recovery Team has also been deployed to aid in recovery efforts.

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We would like to thank Search and Rescue volunteers and all partner agencies involved for their continued dedication and support throughout this operation. Our thoughts are with the missing man’s family and friends during this difficult time.

Sgt. Murray McNeil of the Sicamous RCMP Detachment expressed gratitude to the volunteers and partner agencies involved in the Mara Lake search, extending condolences to the missing man's family. Cpl. Devon Gerrits of the West Kelowna RCMP highlighted the tragic nature of the Okanagan Lake incident, urging everyone to wear properly fitted personal flotation devices to prevent drownings.

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This is a tragic reminder of how quickly recreational activities on the water can turn into an emergency. We extend our sincere condolences to the man’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We also want to remind everyone enjoying our lakes this summer to always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent drowning.